a precautionary basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precautionary basis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions taken to prevent potential problems or risks, often in a context of safety or caution. Example: "We decided to implement the new safety measures on a precautionary basis, even though there were no immediate threats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"At the very least, the stake should be reduced on a FOBT on a precautionary basis," said the group's chair, Carolyn Harris, Labour MP for Swansea East.

The Guardian

Tonight, the Capitol police said the Russell and Dirksen Senate Office Buildings would be closed on a precautionary basis beginning on Saturday so they could be tested again for anthrax.

The New York Times

The products, made by Baketime, have been withdrawn from sale "on a precautionary basis" because of "potential unhygienic manufacturing conditions", the recall notice says, adding: "These products are sold by Aldi, Asvina, Booker and LBV".

The Guardian - Business

The committee called on the Fund to review its lending tools "to explore ways to strengthen its approach to helping members manage volatility and uncertainty – including through financial assistance, also on a precautionary basis".

The Guardian - Business

And it allows countries to block imports of GMOs on a "precautionary" basis in the absence of sufficient scientific evidence about their safety.Optimists hope that the deal will help to defuse transatlantic tensions over GMOs, which threaten to test the World Trade Organisation to breaking-point.

The Economist

(Both were also on a precautionary basis).

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In the case of the ASR™ hip, the data that was emerging should have provided a basis for developing a precautionary assessment, particularly from the regulator and the manufacturer.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

"This was a precautionary measure.

The New York Times

"It was a precautionary measure.

The New York Times

Cashman called it a precautionary measure.

The New York Times - Sports

A precautionary CT scan was normal.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using alternative phrasing like "as a safety precaution" or "out of an abundance of caution" to add nuance to your writing.

Common error

While appropriate in many contexts, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms like "as a safety measure" or "to be on the safe side" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precautionary basis" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates that something is done as a precaution to avoid potential risks, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precautionary basis" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe actions taken to avoid potential risks, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently used in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. When writing, it's essential to ensure that its use is not repetitive by considering alternatives like "as a preventive measure" or "out of an abundance of caution". The phrase serves to justify decisions by highlighting the need for caution, which makes it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a preventive measure

This alternative emphasizes the act of preventing something negative from happening.

as a safety precaution

Focuses on safety and the specific steps taken to ensure it.

out of an abundance of caution

Highlights the excessiveness of the caution being exercised.

as a proactive step

Emphasizes taking action before a problem arises.

to err on the side of caution

Implies choosing the safer option when uncertain.

as a safeguard

Highlights protection or defense against potential risks.

for assurance

Focuses on providing certainty and confidence.

to preemptively address

Emphasizes taking action to deal with a potential issue before it escalates.

as an anticipatory measure

Highlights the action being taken in anticipation of a possible problem.

as a preventative protocol

Formal and suggests a standard procedure to avoid issues.

FAQs

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

You can use "a precautionary basis" to describe actions taken to prevent potential problems. For example: "The products were recalled from the shelves on "a precautionary basis" due to potential contamination".

What are some alternatives to "a precautionary basis"?

Some alternatives include "as a preventive measure", "as a safety precaution", or "out of an abundance of caution".

When is it appropriate to use "a precautionary basis"?

It's appropriate when discussing actions taken to prevent potential problems or risks, particularly when there isn't concrete evidence of an immediate threat but it's wise to be careful.

Is "a precautionary basis" formal or informal language?

The phrase is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, such as news reports, scientific articles, and business communications. Less formal options might include "just in case".