base
“base” means “base” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
base
Also: foundation, bottom
📝 In Action
La base de la lámpara es muy pesada para que no se caiga.
A2The base of the lamp is very heavy so it doesn't fall over.
Construyeron la casa sobre una base de concreto.
B1They built the house on a concrete foundation.
basis
Also: main ingredient, foundation
📝 In Action
La confianza es la base de cualquier amistad.
B1Trust is the basis of any friendship.
Este postre tiene una base de chocolate y almendras.
A2This dessert has a base of chocolate and almonds.
Trabajamos sobre una base de respeto mutuo.
B2We work on a foundation of mutual respect.
base
Also: headquarters, base
📝 In Action
Los soldados regresaron a la base después de la misión.
B1The soldiers returned to the base after the mission.
La compañía tiene su base de operaciones en Madrid.
B2The company has its base of operations in Madrid.
El corredor llegó a segunda base.
B1The runner reached second base.
to base
📝 In Action
Espero que ella base su presentación en datos reales.
B2I hope she bases her presentation on real data.
¡Base sus conclusiones en la evidencia!
B2Base your conclusions on the evidence!
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "base" in Spanish:
base→basis→bottom→foundation→headquarters→main ingredient→to base→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: base
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'base' to talk about a main principle or idea?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word 'basis', which itself came from the Greek word 'βάσις' (básis). The original Greek word meant 'a step', 'a pedestal', or 'that which one steps on'. This idea of a foundation or bottom support has carried through to its modern meanings in Spanish.
First recorded: Around the 13th century.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'base' a masculine or feminine word?
It's always feminine. You should always say 'la base' or 'una base', even though it doesn't end with an '-a'.
What's the difference between 'base' and 'básico'?
'Base' is the thing itself—the foundation, principle, or headquarters (a noun). 'Básico' describes something as being fundamental or simple (an adjective). For example, 'la base del argumento' (the base of the argument) vs. 'un concepto básico' (a basic concept).
How do I use the verb 'basar'?
The verb is 'basar' and you almost always use it with 'en' to say what something is based on. For example, 'Ella basa sus ideas en su experiencia' (She bases her ideas on her experience). The form 'base' that you looked up is used for commands or in special 'subjunctive' situations like wishes.