are not based on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'are not based on' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is not founded on something else. For example, "Her opinions on the subject are not based on any credible evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Now, threats and harms are not based on street-based issues.

The Guardian

The hunts are not based on biology.

The New York Times

These are not based on genetic knowledge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They are not based on facts".

The New York Times

Fees are not based on that.

The New York Times

Picks are not based on the spread.

The New York Times

Because the films are not based on an actor agreeing.

The New York Times

(Fees are not based on the amount of water used).

The New York Times

But decisions like Amazon's are not based on practicality alone.

The New York Times

Often, the decisions are not based on evidence.

The New York Times

Picks are not based on the point spread.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are not based on", ensure that you clearly state what the subject is based on, to provide a complete and informative statement. For example, instead of just saying "The decision is not based on facts", clarify "The decision is not based on facts, but on personal opinions."

Common error

Avoid using "are not based on" excessively in passive constructions. Opt for active voice where possible to make your writing more direct and engaging. For instance, instead of "The conclusions are not based on evidence", consider "The researchers did not base their conclusions on evidence."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not based on" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that the subject lacks a particular foundation or rationale. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammatical rules and is widely used. The phrase essentially denies a connection or dependence between two elements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

36%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are not based on" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to indicate a lack of foundation or reliance. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and broad applicability. While versatile, writers should strive for clarity by specifying what the subject is based on and avoid overuse in passive constructions. The phrase is suitable for various contexts, from formal academic writing to news reporting, reflecting a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have no foundation in

Highlights the lack of a solid or reliable base.

are not grounded in

Implies a lack of practical or realistic connection.

lack a basis in

Focuses on the absence of a fundamental element or principle.

are unsupported by

Suggests a lack of corroborating evidence or data.

do not rely on

Focuses on the lack of dependence on a specific thing.

are devoid of

Emphasizes a complete absence of something.

do not stem from

Focuses on the origin or cause being different.

are independent of

Highlights the separateness or non-reliance on something.

are unrelated to

Emphasizes the absence of a connection or link.

are disconnected from

Implies a separation or lack of association.

FAQs

How can I use "are not based on" in a sentence?

You can use "are not based on" to indicate that something lacks a foundation or origin in something else. For example, "The allegations "are not based on facts"" or "The church's teachings "are not based on opinion polls"".

What are some alternatives to "are not based on"?

Alternatives include phrases like "lack a basis in", "have no foundation in", or "are unsupported by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use the active or passive voice with "are not based on"?

While "are not based on" is grammatically correct, using the active voice can often make your writing more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "The claims are not based on research", consider "The researchers did not base their claims on research".

What's the difference between "are not based on" and "do not rely on"?

"Are not based on" suggests a lack of foundation or origin, while "do not rely on" indicates a lack of dependence. For example, "The theory is not based on empirical data" means it lacks empirical data as a foundation, while "The system does not rely on human input" means it functions independently of human input.