are predicated on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are predicated on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is based on or depends upon a particular premise or condition. Example: "The success of the project is predicated on the team's ability to collaborate effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My answers above are predicated on empirical facts.

The New York Times

Those billions are predicated on lots of future growth.

The New York Times - Tech

Emotional responses are predicated on how the brain thinks.

The New York Times

The "Taken" movies are predicated on violent justice.

The Washington Post

All system elements are predicated on existing technologies.

Solar Energy

His opportunities are not based on creating his own shot, but are predicated on movement.

The New York Times

These early efforts are predicated on a shift in the relationship between consumer and company.

The New York Times

are predicated on the idea that every murder leaves behind a trail of evidence, however faint.

The New Yorker

Some reality shows are predicated on cruelty, or at least a survival-of-the-fittest mentality.

The New York Times - Arts

It's not just the Stones' companies that are predicated on being tax efficient.

The Guardian - Music

America's closest intelligence relationships are predicated on the understanding that shared information will be carefully handled.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are predicated on" to establish a clear logical foundation for an argument or plan. This phrase is particularly effective when outlining assumptions or core principles that underpin a larger concept.

Common error

While "are predicated on" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "are based on" or "depend on" when communicating with a general audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are predicated on" functions as a linking verb phrase, indicating that a subject's validity, existence, or outcome is dependent upon certain conditions or assumptions. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse contexts, reinforcing its role in establishing logical foundations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are predicated on" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies dependence or reliance on specific conditions or assumptions. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is often used to establish a logical foundation or causal relationship, primarily in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While versatile, remember to consider your audience and choose simpler alternatives like "are based on" or "depend on" in more informal settings. By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use "are predicated on" to enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are based upon

Indicates a foundation or basis for something; subtly emphasizes a supporting structure.

are founded on

Suggests a more deliberate and established basis; implies a careful construction of ideas.

are reliant upon

Highlights the dependency aspect; stresses the importance of the base condition for continued function.

hinge on

Emphasizes the critical dependency; suggests that everything depends on a single point or condition.

depend on

A more general term for reliance; lacks the formal tone of "are predicated on".

rest on

Implies that something is supported by a particular foundation.

are contingent upon

Highlights the conditional aspect; stresses that something is only true or valid if a condition is met.

are conditional on

Similar to "are contingent upon" but less formal.

are subject to

Indicates that something is influenced or controlled by a particular factor or condition.

stem from

Highlights the origin or cause; suggests that something originates from a particular source.

FAQs

How can I use "are predicated on" in a sentence?

Use "are predicated on" to show that a plan, idea, or outcome relies on certain assumptions or conditions. For instance, "The project's success "is predicated on" securing adequate funding and resources."

What are some alternatives to "are predicated on"?

You can use alternatives such as "are based on", "depend on", or "rely on" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to use "are predicated on" or "are based on"?

"Are predicated on" is more formal and emphasizes a logical dependency or foundational premise. "Are based on" is a more general and less formal alternative that indicates a foundation or origin.

What does it mean when something is "predicated on" something else?

It means that the first thing is dependent on the second thing for its existence, validity, or success. The relationship implies that without the second thing, the first thing cannot happen or is not true. For instance, "The study's conclusions "are predicated on" accurate data collection."