base
/BAH-seh/
base
The word 'base' refers to the bottom or supporting part of something.
base(Noun)
base
?the bottom or supporting part of something
foundation
?the structure something is built on
,bottom
?the lowest part
📝 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.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Feminine: 'la base'
Even though 'base' doesn't end in '-a', it's a feminine word. Always remember to use 'la' or 'una' with it, like 'la base' (the base) or 'una base sólida' (a solid base).
⭐ Usage Tips
Think Physical Support
This is the most direct meaning of 'base'. Think of the bottom part of anything that holds the rest of it up, like a statue, a lamp, or a tower.
This image represents 'base' meaning the main principle or idea (basis).
base(Noun)
basis
?the main principle or idea
main ingredient
?for food, cosmetics, etc.
,foundation
?for an argument or relationship
📝 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.
⭐ Usage Tips
The Super-Useful Phrase 'a base de'
Use 'a base de' to say what something is mainly made of. For example, 'una dieta a base de plantas' (a plant-based diet) or 'aprendió español a base de ver películas' (he learned Spanish based on watching movies).
The word 'base' is used for a military, naval, or air installation.
base(Noun)
base
?military, naval, or air installation
headquarters
?a center of operations
,base
?in baseball
📝 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.
⭐ Usage Tips
A Place of Operations
Think of this meaning as a 'home base' for a group—whether it's an army, a company, or a baseball team. It's the central point from which they operate.
The verb 'base' means to found an argument or idea on something.
📝 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!
💡 Grammar Points
This is a Form of the Verb 'basar'
The word 'base' is a command form ('Usted base...') and also a special form used for wishes or doubts ('Espero que él base...'). The main, dictionary form of the verb is 'basar'.
Almost Always Used with 'en'
When you use this verb, you almost always follow it with the word 'en' to say what something is based on. For example, 'Baso mi opinión en los hechos' (I base my opinion on the facts).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: base
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'base' to talk about a main principle or idea?
📚 More Resources
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.