a sensible basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensible basis" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a foundation or reasoning that is logical and reasonable for a particular argument or decision. Example: "The proposal was built on a sensible basis, ensuring that all stakeholders were considered in the decision-making process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This would not make a "sensible basis for policy decisions about the future of the BBC" and its universal service, it concluded.

The Guardian

Whether on the street or at the terminal, suspicious behaviour is a sensible basis for search by policing professionals; race or religion is not," she said.

The Guardian

Real Labour would not abandon a bedroom tax but would see it as a sensible basis for redistributing housing assistance to those who really need it, not to those who inherited a need that has expired.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Pensions Regulator suggests that six to 12 months is a realistic timeframe to get a scheme in place, while some experts reckon 18 months is a sensible basis for planning.

Independent

That is why the PM is right to target the amount we pay in benefits for those coming to the UK to work, and put these arrangements on a sensible basis.

Independent

Any appeal can then proceed on a sensible basis with the judge's reasoning open to scrutiny.With a jury there is no judgment but merely the bald words "guilty" or "not guilty".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"This has been an exceptionally long, difficult and expensive process involving not just the FTT and UTT but also several approaches to resolve the with senior HMRC officials on a commercially sensible basis for all parties which were rejected".

BBC

"This has been an exceptionally long, difficult and expensive process involving not just the tax tribunal but also significant efforts to resolve the matter with senior HMRC officials on a commercially sensible basis for all parties.

BBC

He has resisted — and his foreign minister and unity government partner, Avigdor Lieberman, has openly derided — the two-state solution that is the only sensible basis for a lasting settlement that could anchor a regional peace.

The New York Times

Call it what you want, the upshot is the same: a failure to look reality in the eye and deal with it on a sensible, empirical basis.

The New Yorker

We believe we've found an investor with extensive knowledge of football who is well placed to stabilise the club in the Championship and help develop it on a sensible commercial basis".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sensible basis", ensure that the context clearly defines what makes the basis sensible. Provide specific reasons or evidence to support its reasonableness.

Common error

Avoid using "a sensible basis" without adequately explaining why the basis is sensible. Oversimplifying or failing to provide sufficient justification can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensible basis" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. The phrase identifies a foundation or reason that is deemed practical and logical.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensible basis" is a noun phrase used to describe a foundation or justification that is considered reasonable and practical. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and appears primarily in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. The phrase conveys rationality and good judgment, making it useful for assuring audiences of the logical soundness of an argument or decision. Related phrases include "a reasonable basis" and "a logical foundation". When using the phrase, be sure to clearly explain why the basis is sensible to avoid oversimplification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a suitable basis

Replaces "sensible" with "suitable", suggesting appropriateness for a particular purpose.

a reasonable basis

Substitutes "sensible" with "reasonable", indicating a logical and justifiable foundation.

a logical foundation

Emphasizes the clear and rational aspect of the base.

a sound rationale

Uses "sound" and "rationale" to highlight the valid and logical justification.

a rational foundation

Replaces "sensible" with "rational", stressing the grounded and logical nature of the base.

a well-reasoned argument

Shifts from a basis to an argument, highlighting the thoughtful and logical construction.

a pragmatic approach

Focuses on the practical and realistic nature of the approach, similar to being sensible.

a realistic assessment

Highlights the practical and grounded perspective, akin to a sensible evaluation.

a viable option

Emphasizes the feasibility and workability of the choice.

a practical solution

Focuses on the effectiveness and applicability of the solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sensible basis" to describe a logical and reasonable foundation for an argument, decision, or plan. For example, "The policy was created on "a sensible basis" considering all available data".

What are some alternatives to saying "a sensible basis"?

Alternatives include "a reasonable basis", "a logical foundation", or "a sound rationale", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "sensible" or "sound" when describing a basis?

"Sensible" implies practicality and good judgment, while "sound" suggests reliability and validity. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the practicality or the reliability of the basis.

Can "a sensible basis" be subjective?

While "a sensible basis" aims to describe a logical and reasonable foundation, what is considered sensible can sometimes depend on individual perspectives and values. Therefore, it's important to provide clear justifications to support your claim.