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to strengthen or establish a solid base (often for learning, skills, or systems) in order to prepare for further progress
語学を学ぶ前に基礎を固めることが大切です。
It's important to solidify your foundation before learning a language.
このプロジェクトでは、まず基礎を固めることから始めましょう。
Let's start by solidifying the foundation for this project.
Commonly used in academic, professional, and skill-learning contexts. Often implies a deliberate, gradual process rather than immediate results.
Remember that ために (tame ni) is used for purpose (in order to), not for cause (because). For cause, use ため (tame) or から (kara). Example: 病気のために休みます (I rest because I'm sick) vs. 基礎を固めるために勉強します (I study in order to solidify my foundation).
Use this when talking about deliberate preparation or skill-building. It's not used for physical foundations (like buildings) unless in a metaphorical sense. For literal foundations, use 土台 (dodai) or 土台を固める.
基礎 (kiso) means 'foundation' or 'base', from Chinese via kanji. 固める (katameru) means 'to solidify' or 'to strengthen'. ために (tame ni) is a conjunctive particle indicating purpose ('in order to'). The phrase combines these to express the action of strengthening one's base for future development.
This phrase is typically used when discussing long-term preparation or skill development. It implies a process that requires time and consistent effort. In business or project contexts, it often refers to establishing core principles or systems before expanding.