a major basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major basis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a significant foundation or reason for something, often in academic or formal contexts. Example: "The study identified a major basis for the observed changes in climate patterns."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

A major basis for this structure of poetic patronage was the bureaucratization of the ulema.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rainfall runoff simulation is a major basis for analyzing the hydrological effects of urbanization.

Journal of Hydrology

It is well established that the response of the cell to environmental stress is a major basis for cell modification.

Free Radical Biology and Medicine

It provided a major basis for the Pop art movement of the 1950s and '60s, which took as its subject matter commonplace objects from popular culture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Electricity generation is also the principal use of the main fields in eastern Germany; however, during partition lignite was a major basis of the chemical industry as well as a source of gas and briquettes for urban consumption.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It would disallow proof of discrimination based on the race of the victim, which is a major basis for finding racial bias in capital punishment in North Carolina and elsewhere.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

A major molecular basis for this suppressive effect is thought to be due to the decreased expression of motility- and invasion-related genes, but it is possible that it partly reflects the reduced cell viability.

British Journal of Cancer

Although the precise molecular mechanism(s) by which bortezomib exerts its antitumour effect remains unclear, preventing activation of the NF- κB pathway is believed to be a major mechanistic basis (Hideshima et al, 2001; Cusack, 2003; Ling et al, 2003; Pham et al, 2003).

British Journal of Cancer

The major basis for suspecting Griggs and Johnson killed Rondeau was the word of a snitch named Eugene Hawes.

The Guardian

Informal familial support formed the major basis of welfare provision in both villages.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Its major basis for fundraising is its claim that gun rights are threatened.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major basis", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being supported or founded upon. For example, "Strong economic growth is a major basis for increased investment".

Common error

Avoid using "a major basis" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler phrases like "a main reason" or "the key factor" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major basis" functions as a noun phrase, identifying a significant foundation, reason, or justification for something. Ludwig AI identifies it as correct and usable in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

23%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a major basis" is a versatile phrase used to denote a significant reason or foundation. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and most suitable for formal and scientific contexts. While "a major basis" is common in academic writing, news reporting, and encyclopedic entries, it's less frequent in informal settings. When aiming for simplicity, consider using alternatives such as "a key reason" or "a primary foundation". Remember to use it when precision and authority are needed and avoid overuse in everyday conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key foundation

Replaces "major" with "key", emphasizing importance.

a primary reason

Substitutes "basis" with "reason", focusing on causation.

a fundamental principle

Emphasizes the foundational aspect by using "fundamental principle".

a significant factor

Shifts focus to the influence of something rather than its foundational role.

an essential element

Highlights the necessity of the element.

a crucial component

Focuses on the part something plays in a bigger picture.

a central aspect

Emphasizes the core importance of something.

a core component

Slightly more technical alternative.

a main driver

Highlights the causal effect instead of a base.

a prime motivator

Alternative highlights the motivational aspect.

FAQs

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

You can use "a major basis" to indicate a significant foundation or reason for something. For example, "The research provides a major basis for the new policy".

What's a simpler alternative to "a major basis"?

Consider using phrases like "a key reason", "a primary foundation", or "a main factor" as alternatives to "a major basis", depending on the specific context. For example, you can use "a key reason".

In what contexts is "a major basis" most appropriate?

The phrase "a major basis" is suitable for formal writing, academic papers, and professional reports where precision and clarity are essential.

Is it correct to use "the major basis" instead of "a major basis"?

While grammatically possible, "the major basis" implies there is only one primary reason or foundation, which may not always be accurate. "A major basis" is generally more flexible and appropriate, while implying that "the main reason" or foundation can be one of several equally important factors.