Translation guide
The English word 'foundation' can refer to a physical base of a building, an underlying basis or principle, or an organization that provides funding. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
The concrete or structural base on which a building stands.
The most common word for the physical foundation of a building or structure.
The foundation of this building is very sturdy.
Refers to the base or platform, often used for wooden structures or metaphorically.
The foundation of the house has rotted.
Refers to the ground or soil as a foundation, often in engineering contexts.
Because the ground is weak, we need to reinforce the foundation.
The fundamental idea, principle, or fact on which something is based.
Used for the basics or fundamentals of a subject, skill, or system.
It's important to learn the foundations of mathematics thoroughly.
Often used for the foundation of society, economy, or abstract systems.
Metaphorically used for the basis of something, similar to 'groundwork'.
Refers to the root or fundamental cause; more philosophical.
An institution established to provide financial support, such as a charitable foundation.
Standard term for a foundation as a legal entity that manages assets for a purpose.
He established an educational foundation.
Often refers to a fund or foundation that provides grants or scholarships.
General term for a corporation or legal entity; used in names like 財団法人 (foundation).
基礎 (kiso) is the most versatile and common for both physical and abstract foundations. 基盤 (kiban) is often used for large-scale abstract foundations like society or economy. 土台 (dodai) can be physical or metaphorical but implies a base that supports something above it.
to solidify the foundation (of skills, knowledge)
the foundation of the economy
the foundation of success
The loanword ファンデーション (fandēshon) only refers to makeup foundation. Using it for other meanings will cause confusion.
to apply foundation (makeup)
The foundation of the building is made of concrete.
Trust is the foundation of any relationship.
She works for a charitable foundation.
教育は社会の基盤です。
Education is the foundation of society.
信頼関係がビジネスの土台だ。
Trust is the foundation of business.
問題の根本を理解しなければならない。
We must understand the foundation of the problem.
この研究は科学基金の助成を受けている。
This research is supported by a science foundation.
この財団法人は環境保護に取り組んでいる。
This foundation is working on environmental protection.