groundwork; foundation; preparation
Refers to the preparatory work, base, or underlying conditions that make something possible. Often used in abstract contexts like 下地を作る (lay the groundwork).
The foundation of success lies in daily effort.
彼は幼い頃から音楽の下地があった。
He had a grounding in music from a young age.
aptitude; inclination; elementary knowledge
Describes a natural bent or basic knowledge that serves as a starting point. Often used with ～がある or ～ができている.
彼女には語学の下地がある。
She has an aptitude for languages.
数学の下地ができていないと、物理は難しい。
If you don't have a basic grounding in math, physics is difficult.
Used in painting, plastering, and similar crafts for the base layer applied before the finish coat.
壁に下地を塗ってから、ペンキを塗ります。
Apply an undercoat to the wall before painting.
Archaic or specialized term for soy sauce, often seen in the compound お下地. Rare in modern everyday use.
See also: お下地
昔は醤油のことを「下地」と呼ぶことがあった。
In the past, soy sauce was sometimes called 下地.
I'm studying English to lay the groundwork for studying abroad.
He already has a foundation in piano, so he'll improve quickly.
She has an aptitude for drawing, so it's fun to teach her.
You need to apply a primer before painting the wall.
sukiyaki stock
makeup base; primer; foundation base