基礎を固める

kiso o katameru

lay a solid foundation

まずは基礎を固めることが大切です。

First, it's important to lay a solid foundation.

formal

To strengthen or solidify the fundamental elements of something, ensuring stability and readiness for further development.

語学を学ぶなら、まずは基礎を固めるべきだ。

If you're learning a language, you should first lay a solid foundation.

このプロジェクトでは、基礎を固めるために3ヶ月かかりました。

We spent three months laying the groundwork for this project.

Often used in contexts like education, business, or personal development where foundational skills or structures are prioritized.

Collocations

基礎を固めるためにin order to lay a solid foundation基礎を固めることthe act of laying a solid foundation基礎が固まるthe foundation becomes solid

Synonyms

基礎を固める土台を固める基礎を固くする

Antonyms

基礎が崩れる基礎が弱まる

Related Phrases

基礎から始めるphrase

to start from the basics

土台を築くphrase

to build a foundation

基礎が大切phrase

the foundation is important

Pro Tip

Common Mistake

Avoid using 基礎を固める when referring to literal physical foundations (e.g., construction). Use it metaphorically for skills, knowledge, or systems.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

This phrase is almost always used metaphorically. If you're talking about a physical foundation (e.g., of a building), use terms like 土台 (dodai) or 基礎工事 (kiso kōji).

Word Origin

The phrase combines 基礎 (kiso, 'foundation' or 'base') and 固める (katameru, 'to harden' or 'to solidify'). 基礎 originates from Chinese (基礎, jīchǔ) and entered Japanese via Classical Chinese, while 固める is a native Japanese verb. The combination reflects the idea of strengthening the base to ensure stability.

Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to emphasize the importance of mastering basics before advancing. It is often used in educational, professional, or personal development settings.

Word Breakdown

基礎

foundation, base

noun

を

object marker

particle

固める

to solidify, to harden

verb

和英辞典

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