a courtesy basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'on a courtesy basis' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation in which someone is being provided with something out of kindness rather than obligation. For example: "I offered to help her out on a courtesy basis, so she wouldn't have to do it all on her own."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I prefer to leave it on a courtesy basis".

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a courtesy.

The New York Times

This is a courtesy call.

The New Yorker

You may think this is being done as a courtesy.

The New York Times - Tech

At one point, Anne Natalie Portmann) paid her a courtesy call.

The New Yorker

"It's a courtesy table," Ms. Jansen said.

The New York Times

This charge fails even a courtesy examination.

The Guardian

This was a courtesy to an acquaintance.

The Washington Post

It’s a courtesy but also a discipline.”.

Forbes

-Chuang-tzu There is a courtesy of the heart.

Forbes

"We thought we'd just do it as a courtesy".

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a courtesy basis" to clearly convey that something is being offered or done as a matter of goodwill, not as a contractual obligation. For example, "We are providing this service on a courtesy basis while the system is under maintenance."

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a courtesy basis" implies a long-term commitment. Clearly communicate any limitations or conditions to prevent misunderstandings. Don't let expectations escalate beyond what is intended as a temporary favor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a courtesy basis" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, specifying the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates that something is done out of politeness or as a favor, rather than as an obligation or requirement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

15%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a courtesy basis" is grammatically sound and used to express that something is done out of politeness rather than obligation. As noted by Ludwig AI, it clarifies the intention behind an action, highlighting goodwill. While its usage is rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts, it's a valuable phrase for conveying a specific nuance. For alternative ways to express similar ideas, consider "as a matter of courtesy" or "as a favor". Remember that "a courtesy basis" does not automatically create a long-term commitment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a matter of courtesy

This alternative emphasizes the act being done is primarily motivated by politeness.

by way of a courtesy

This alternative is a more formal way to express the idea of doing something as a courtesy.

out of politeness

This alternative directly states the motivation for the action is politeness.

as a common courtesy

Indicates that the action is a standard practice of politeness.

as a favor

This alternative highlights the helpful and obliging nature of the act.

as an act of kindness

Highlights the benevolent aspect of the action, emphasizing compassion and generosity.

as a gesture of goodwill

This alternative emphasizes the positive and friendly intention behind the action.

as a special accommodation

Suggests that the action is a non-standard arrangement made to assist someone.

on a provisional basis

This alternative suggests something is temporary and provided as a temporary arrangement, but it doesn't imply politeness

on an informal basis

This means there's no formal contract or agreement in place, and that is happening without all the bureaucracy

FAQs

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

You can use "a courtesy basis" to indicate that something is being done as a favor or out of politeness, rather than as a requirement or obligation. For example, "We are offering this service on "a courtesy basis" to help you get started."

What are some alternatives to "a courtesy basis"?

Some alternatives to "a courtesy basis" include "as a matter of courtesy", "as a favor", or "out of politeness". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean when something is offered on "a courtesy basis"?

When something is offered on "a courtesy basis", it means it is being provided as a gesture of goodwill, without any strict legal or contractual obligation. It's a voluntary act of kindness or politeness.

Is "a courtesy basis" the same as "a complimentary basis"?

While similar, "a complimentary basis" usually implies that something is being provided for free. "A courtesy basis" emphasizes the politeness or goodwill behind the offering, which may or may not involve a monetary transaction.