crossword clue foundation – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "foundation," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers for various word lengths, along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue foundation" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BASE: The fundamental layer or support upon which something is built, literally or figuratively.
ROOT: The underlying origin or source from which something develops, essential to its being.
5 Letters
BASIS: The fundamental principle or reason that forms the support for an idea or system.
7 Letters
BEDROCK: The fundamental principles on which something is based, implying a solid and unshakeable ground.
11 Letters
CORNERSTONE: An indispensable and fundamental basis, indicating a crucial element upon which everything else depends.
More About "crossword clue foundation"
"Foundation" is a deeply versatile word, serving as a cornerstone (pun intended!) in both literal and abstract contexts. In the physical world, it refers to the lowest load-bearing part of a building, providing stability and support. Metaphorically, it denotes the underlying principles, ideas, or facts upon which something is based or from which it develops.
In crosswords, this versatility makes "foundation" a rich clue. It can prompt answers related to architectural elements, the origins of concepts, the fundamental truths of an argument, or even the essential core of an organization. Understanding the specific nuance the clue is aiming for often requires careful consideration of the puzzle's theme or other intersecting words.
The vocabulary associated with "foundation" is extensive, ranging from simple, short words like 'base' or 'root' to more complex or formal terms such as 'groundwork', 'bedrock', or 'cornerstone'. This variety ensures that "foundation" clues can appear in puzzles of all difficulty levels, challenging solvers to think broadly about its many interpretations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always consider the surrounding words in the clue and the overall theme of the puzzle. A "foundation" clue in a construction-themed puzzle might lean towards 'BASE', while in a philosophical one, it might be 'BASIS'.
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a potential answer in mind, always verify its length against the number of squares in the crossword grid. This is often the quickest way to confirm or rule out a word.
- Brainstorm Synonyms Broadly: For abstract clues like "foundation," don't limit yourself to just one type of definition (e.g., only physical foundations). Think of all possible synonyms and related concepts, including metaphorical uses.
- Use Cross-References: If you've already solved intersecting clues, use the letters you've uncovered to narrow down the possibilities for "foundation." These shared letters can be invaluable hints.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "foundation" have so many different answers in crosswords?
"Foundation" is a versatile word, encompassing literal meanings like the base of a structure and metaphorical meanings like the underlying principle of an idea. Crossword setters exploit this semantic range, leading to many synonyms depending on the specific nuance intended by the clue.
How can I tell if a "foundation" clue is looking for a literal or metaphorical answer?
Look for accompanying words in the clue. Terms like "building's support" or "structural bottom" suggest a literal answer (e.g., BASE). Phrases like "basic premise" or "core principle" point to metaphorical answers (e.g., BASIS, BEDROCK).
Are there common word patterns for "foundation" answers?
Many answers are fundamental nouns. Short answers like BASE and ROOT are frequent. Longer answers often involve compounds or more formal synonyms like GROUNDWORK or CORNERSTONE. Always consider the number of letters required.