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What do Basic and Basis mean? What are the similarities and differences between Basic and Basis?

Although Basic and Basis seem to be similar, they are used very differently. Let's explore the definitions and differentiate between Basis and Basic in English with PREP in this article!

Differences between 2 words Basic and Basis in English

I. What is Basic?

First, let's find out what Basic is and its synonyms!

1. Usage of Basic

What is Basic? According to the Cambridge Dictionary, Basic /ˈbeɪ.sɪk/ is usually an adjective in English, meaning: simple and not complicated. For example:

Rocket really needs to get some basic financial advice.
It's the most basic model.

2. Synonyms of Basic

Let's explore the synonyms of Basic right below!

Synonyms	Meaning	Example
Elementary /ˌel.əˈmen.t̬ɚ.i/ (adj)	relating to the basic elements of a subject; straightforward and uncomplicated	Learning the elementary principles of Mathematics is essential for building a strong foundation in the subject.
Fundamental /ˌfʌn.dəˈmen.t̬əl/ (adj)	forming a necessary base or core; of central importance	Respect for individual rights and freedoms is a fundamental aspect of any democratic society.
Rudimentary /ˌruː.dəˈmen.tər.i/ (adj)	only basic, and not deep or detailed	Robert’s understanding of the language was rudimentary at best, and he struggled to communicate effectively.
Essential /ɪˈsen.ʃəl/ (adj)	absolutely necessary; extremely important	Proper nutrition and regular exercise are essential for maintaining good health.
Underlying /ˌʌn.dɚˈlaɪ.ɪŋ/ (adj)	significant as a cause or basis of something but not necessarily manifest or obvious	The underlying cause of the conflict was a long-standing territorial dispute between the two nations.

II. What is Basis?

Below, let's explore the definition and synonyms of Basis!

1. Usage of Basis

What is Basis? According to the Cambridge Dictionary, Basis /ˈbeɪ.siːz/ is usually a noun in English, meaning: the most important facts, ideas, etc. from which something is developed. For example:

Smith’s document will form the basis for our discussion.
Their proposals have no proven scientific basis.

2. Synonyms of Basis

Let's explore the synonyms of Basis right below!

Synonyms of Basis	Meaning	Example
Base /beɪs/ (n)	the activity or people from which someone or something gets most of their or its support, money, etc.	Her arguments have a sound financial base.
Starting point /ˈstɑːr.t̬ɪŋ ˌpɔɪnt/ (n)	a place or position where something begins	Your education is the starting point for your career, but lifelong learning is essential for success.
Underpinning /ˈʌn.dɚˌpɪn.ɪŋ/ (n)	a set of ideas, motives, or devices that justify or form the basis for something	Ethical principles serve as the underpinning of our business practices, guiding our decisions and actions.
Root /ruːt/ (n)	the basic cause, source, or origin of something	The root cause of the problem was a lack of communication within the team.
Groundwork /ˈɡraʊnd.wɝːk/ (n)	work that is done as preparation for other work that will be done later	The negotiations laid the groundwork for a potential agreement between the two nations.
Foundation /faʊnˈdeɪ.ʃən/ (n)	an idea or fact that something is based on	A solid educational foundation is essential for personal and professional growth.

III. Differences of Basic vs Basis in English

So how are Basic and Basis different? Let's explore this in detail through the analysis table below!

	Basic	Basis
Part of speech	Adjective	Noun
Meaning	simple and not complicated	the most important facts, ideas, etc. from which something is developed
Example	Monie has a basic understanding of computer programming.	Their friendship was built on a basis of mutual respect and trust.

IV. Basic and Basis exercises with answers

Let's learn more about Basic and Basis through the following practice exercises with PREP!

1. Basic and Basis exercises

Exercise 1: Choose the correct answer: Basic or Basis

Learning the_______principles of physics is essential for understanding more complex scientific concepts.
1. Basic
2. Basis
Trust is the_______of any strong and healthy relationship.
1. Basic
2. Basis
The_______idea behind the project is to create a more sustainable energy source.
1. Basic
2. Basis
In cooking, mastering the_______techniques like chopping and sautéing is crucial.
1. Basic
2. Basis
The legal case was dismissed due to a lack of a valid legal_______.
1. Basic
2. Basis

Bài tập 2: Choose correct words: basic and basis to fill in the blanks

Before you can understand the __________ of computer programming languages, you need to grasp simple coding concepts.
To improve your fitness, start with __________ exercises like walking or jogging before moving on to more intense workouts.
The __________ of our friendship is honesty and open communication.
The success of the project was due to the strong __________ in project management principles.
Understanding the __________ principles of cooking is essential for anyone who wants to become a chef.

2. Basic and Basis answers

Exercise 1:

Exercise 2:

Basis
Basic
Basis
Basis
Basic

PREP hopes you now have a better understanding of the differences and applications of Basic and Basis after reading this essay about them above. To stay up to date on additional valuable English knowledge, visit PREP often!

Master Tu Pham

Founder/CEO at Prep

Founder of Prep Smart Test Preparation Platform. With over 10 years of experience in teaching and test preparation, Mr. Tú has helped thousands of students achieve high scores in the IELTS exam. In addition, Mr. Tú Phạm is also a consulting expert in British Council programs and a speaker at many leading educational events, programs, and conferences.