Clear basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear basis" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the underlying facts or reasoning that support an argument. For example: "The research gives a clear basis for the conclusions drawn in the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We need a clear basis on which to include and exclude each criterion.

The Guardian

Many of the terrors that find expression in Alper's art have a clear basis in her outer life.

The New Yorker

On the clear basis, the generalized density evolution equation is derived once again in a more natural way.

Structural Safety

We have developed a unified rationale and a clear basis for effective strategic management of risk across diverse sectors.

Structural Safety

However, the literature lacks from a clear basis for appraising and leveraging the learning outcomes of the role mining process.

Information Security Technical Report

Many studies have failed to establish a clear basis for observed improvements in altered perceptual sensitivity or discriminability.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Computed results from the model explain several well known phenomena in particle discharge from hoppers and the method described gives a clear basis for design.

Chemical Engineering Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

I cannot imagine a clearer basis than Stump for asserting the claim upon which respondent ultimately prevailed in the Fourth Circuit.

Cornell University

Neumann-Held argues that this conception provides the clearest basis for understanding how DNA sequences are "used in the processes of polypeptide production".

SEP

These may provide a clearer basis for establishing a bilingual advantage in processes of attention and executive control that underpin the development of pragmatics.

Plosone

"It's amazing to think that we've broken new ground on this... that there is a clear neurobiological basis for motivated forgetting," Anderson said.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clear basis" when you want to emphasize that there's a well-defined and easily understood foundation for a decision, argument, or action. It communicates transparency and reduces ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "clear basis" as a generic filler. Always ensure you clearly articulate what that basis is, providing specific details or evidence to support it. For instance, instead of saying "There's a clear basis for our decision", specify "Our decision is based on the positive results from three independent clinical trials".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear basis" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a preposition (e.g., "on a clear basis") or as a complement to a verb (e.g., "provide a clear basis"). It indicates a foundation or justification that is easily understood. As stated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

26%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "clear basis" is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase that signifies a well-defined foundation or justification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and appropriate for use in written English. With a high frequency across diverse contexts such as science, news media, and formal business, "clear basis" serves to underscore transparency and reduce ambiguity in arguments, decisions, or actions. While commonly used, it's crucial to ensure specificity, avoiding vague references and clearly articulating the underlying support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sound rationale

Focuses on the logical reasoning behind something, rather than just a foundation.

well-founded reason

Emphasizes that the reason has been thoroughly examined and found to be valid.

solid justification

Emphasizes the act of defending or proving something to be right.

firm foundation

Highlights the strength and stability of the underlying support.

cogent argument

Focuses on the persuasive nature and clarity of the reasoning.

explicit justification

Stresses the direct and unambiguous nature of the reasons provided.

valid premise

Refers to a statement assumed to be true and used as a basis for reasoning.

legitimate grounds

Indicates acceptable or lawful reasons for an action or belief.

unquestionable validity

Highlights that the basis is firmly established and cannot be doubted.

irrefutable evidence

Emphasizes the strength of the evidence supporting a claim or decision.

FAQs

How can I use "clear basis" in a sentence?

You can use "clear basis" to indicate a well-defined foundation for a decision, argument, or action. For example, "The research provides a "clear basis" for the new policy".

What are some alternatives to "clear basis"?

Some alternatives include "sound rationale", "solid justification", or "firm foundation" depending on the context.

Is "clear basis" a formal or informal expression?

"Clear basis" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is frequently used in academic, professional, and journalistic writing.

What does it mean to say something lacks a "clear basis"?

If something lacks a "clear basis", it means there is no easily understandable or well-defined foundation for it. It suggests the idea or action is arbitrary or lacks support.