as-needed basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as-needed basis" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where something is done only when required, rather than on a regular schedule. Example: "We will provide support on an as-needed basis to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

* Guiding Private Tours for guests on an as-needed basis.

Yale University

Further surgery was performed on an as-needed basis.

Journal of Voice

He likes to travel light and acquires his guns on an as-needed basis.

The New Yorker

Any research training they receive is on an as-needed basis.

The New York Times

Both companies are lean organizations that hire actors on an as-needed basis.

The New York Times

Revlon will select another agency for Mitchum on an as-needed basis, she said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

I take on a as needed basis.

Harvard University

later will be reviewed on an as needed basis.

Columbia University

Now, I work as a floater between departments, helping colleagues on an as needed basis.

Harvard Business Review

Internal disclosure should be made on an as needed basis, limiting the possibility of leaks.

Harvard University

Cloths can be washed with bleach on an as needed basis.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as-needed basis" to clearly indicate that resources, actions, or services are provided only when a specific need arises, avoiding unnecessary allocation or effort. It's crucial for conveying efficient and responsive operations.

Common error

Avoid using "as-needed basis" without specifying what triggers the need. For example, instead of saying "Support will be provided on an as-needed basis", clarify with "Support will be provided on an as-needed basis, triggered by critical system failures or user reports."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as-needed basis" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate that an action or resource is provided only when necessary. This is confirmed by Ludwig, which shows its frequent use across various contexts, from scientific research to news reports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Academia

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as-needed basis" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate that an action, resource, or service is provided only when necessary or required. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including academic, scientific, and news media. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. When using "as-needed basis", ensure clarity by specifying the triggers or criteria for when the need arises, enhancing communication effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when required

Replaces 'basis' with a direct synonym; implies action occurs at the time of need.

as required

Simple substitution, maintains the same structure and meaning.

on demand

Suggests immediacy and availability at the moment of request.

only when necessary

Adds emphasis on the condition of necessity.

contingent upon need

Highlights the dependence on a specific requirement or circumstance.

upon request

Emphasizes the role of a request in triggering the action or provision.

as the situation demands

Focuses on the situational aspect of needing something.

resource allocation based on need

More formally specifies that resources are distributed according to demands.

just in time

Highlights the concept of optimizing efficiency by having resources available exactly when needed.

dependent on circumstances

Broader and less direct, indicating that actions vary with the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "as-needed basis" in a sentence?

Use "as-needed basis" to describe situations where something is provided or done only when necessary. For example, "We offer technical support on an as-needed basis".

What is a good alternative to "as-needed basis"?

You can use alternatives like "when required", "on demand", or "as required" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "on a as-needed basis"?

No, the correct phrasing is "on an as-needed basis". The article "an" is used because "as-needed" functions as an adjective modifying "basis", and it begins with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "as-needed basis" and "regular basis"?

"As-needed basis" implies that something is done only when necessary or requested, while "regular basis" means something is done at fixed intervals or according to a set schedule.