Based on what I know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Based on what I know" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express an opinion or conclusion that is derived from your current knowledge or understanding of a topic. Example: "Based on what I know, the project deadline is next Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

"Based on what I know, I wouldn't think so," Blunt replied.

The New York Times

Based on what I know at this point, I'm not in favor of it".

The New York Times

Based on what I know about the emails, the idea of her being indicted or going to prison is nonsensical.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Based on what I know about the younger market, when the opportunity presented itself, we grabbed it".

The New York Times

"Based on what I know, it does not sound like he did have the right to pull her out," DeCarlo said.

The Guardian

"Based on what I know now, this is an important step in putting a lid on Iran's nuclear program," she said, adding there was still "a lot of concern" about Iran's state-sponsored terrorism.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

"That's only my opinion, of course, based on what I knew.

The New York Times - Arts

I would not change anything based on what I knew at that time," she says.

The Guardian

"I just made it all up based on what I knew of the stewardess life from working at American," said Mr. Bain, who went on to write more than a hundred books, including the "Murder She Wrote" mystery novels.

The New York Times

I chose every single subject based on what I knew I would get the best mark in," she says.

Vice

It was an image based on what I knew people imagined vulnerability to be, as I internally continued to show myself I wasn't actually weak.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Based on what I know" to preface statements that reflect your current understanding, but acknowledge that new information could alter your perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "Based on what I know" when you possess comprehensive, definitive information. Opt for a more assertive statement to reflect your confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Based on what I know" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a statement or opinion. It signals that the speaker's statement is derived from their current understanding. Ludwig confirms this usage with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Based on what I know" is a common prepositional phrase used to qualify a statement, indicating that it is based on the speaker's current understanding. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. While frequently used in news and media, it maintains a neutral register and signals that the speaker's knowledge may be incomplete. Consider alternatives such as "from my understanding" or "according to my knowledge" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

From my understanding

Emphasizes personal comprehension as the basis for the statement.

According to my knowledge

Highlights the speaker's body of knowledge as the foundation.

To the best of my understanding

Adds a qualifier about the completeness of one's understanding.

As far as I can tell

Indicates the statement is based on current assessment and might change.

Given my current information

Focuses on the specific information the speaker possesses at the moment.

In my estimation

Highlights a personal judgment or assessment.

From what I've gathered

Indicates information collected from various sources.

In my considered opinion

Emphasizes that the opinion is well-thought-out and deliberate.

As I understand it

Focuses on the individual's interpretation of a situation.

My understanding is that

Directly states the speaker's understanding of a matter.

FAQs

How can I use "Based on what I know" in a sentence?

Use "Based on what I know" to introduce a statement or opinion that is informed by your current understanding, but may be subject to change as you learn more. For example: "Based on what I know, the meeting is scheduled for next Tuesday."

What are some alternatives to "Based on what I know"?

You can use alternatives such as "from my understanding", "according to my knowledge", or "as far as I can tell", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "Based on what I know" or "According to what I know"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "Based on what I know" is more common and natural-sounding in contemporary English. "According to what I know" is also acceptable, but slightly more formal.

When should I avoid using "Based on what I know"?

Avoid using "Based on what I know" when you are presenting facts that are universally accepted or verifiable. In those cases, a direct statement without qualification is more appropriate.