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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
based on a needs
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "based on a needs" is not correct in English.
It should be "based on needs" or "based on a need." You can use it when discussing decisions, strategies, or actions that are determined by specific requirements or necessities. Example: "Our project will be tailored based on needs identified during the initial assessment."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
11 human-written examples
Both websites were thoroughly developed based on a needs assessment and two evidence-based guidelines, and reviewed by an interdisciplinary advisory committee.
Only five programs were based on a needs assessment, four among the residents themselves [ 21- 24] and one among their supervisors [ 25].
Science
We do not distribute textbooks or computers based on a needs test.
News & Media
Based on a needs analysis, the number of individual training positions in the Netherlands will be reduced over the next few years from 59 to less than 40 each yearly.
Based on a needs assessment study with mapmakers at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, we designed a new, mixed-method symbol standardization process that takes place through a web-based, asynchronous platform.
Based on a needs assessment we conducted, several themes were identified as important for a possible management training program.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
49 human-written examples
A synthesized research definition of cognitive flexibility is a switch in thinking, whether that is specifically based on a switch in rules or broadly based on a need to switch one's previous beliefs or thoughts to new situations.
Wiki
We did not include patients referred to intermediate care units, transferred from one ICU to another based on a need for specific resources, or previously refused admission to another ICU.
Science
So much of social media posting is based on a need we have.
News & Media
Assistant secretary for civil works Jo-Ellen Darcy announced the decision on Sunday, with the army saying it was based on "a need to explore alternate routes" for the crossing.
News & Media
The prime minister's spokeswoman said: "Health professionals were asked to review cases where people qualified for personal independence payments based on a need for aids and appliances they have for their disability.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Always ensure that the noun following "based on a" is singular ("need") or, if referring to multiple needs, omit the article and use the plural form ("based on needs").
Common error
Avoid using a plural noun directly after the article "a" when using the phrase "based on". The correct forms are "based on a need" (singular) or "based on needs" (plural, omitting "a").
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "based on a needs" functions as a prepositional phrase intended to modify a verb or noun, indicating the foundation or rationale for an action or decision. However, according to Ludwig, this phrasing is incorrect.
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "based on a needs" is considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. The correct forms are "based on a need" (singular) or "based on needs" (plural). As Ludwig AI indicates, this incorrect phrasing undermines clarity and professionalism. When writing, opt for grammatically sound alternatives like "according to needs", "driven by needs", or "dictated by needs" to ensure your message is clear and credible. Avoiding the use of "based on a needs" will help maintain a higher standard of writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
based on requirements
Replaces "needs" with the synonym "requirements", keeping the structure similar.
according to needs
Changes the preposition to "according to", altering the grammatical structure slightly.
driven by needs
Uses "driven by" to emphasize that the needs are the primary motivating factor.
dictated by needs
Emphasizes that the needs are strongly determining the outcome.
informed by needs
Suggests that the needs provide information that guides the decision.
guided by needs
Implies the needs are a compass to a direction or choice.
determined by needs
States that the needs are the decisive factor.
stemming from needs
Highlights that the needs are the origin or cause.
arising from needs
Focuses on the emergence of something due to the needs.
contingent on needs
Highlights the conditional relationship, where something depends on the needs.
FAQs
What's the correct way to say something is determined by requirements?
The correct phrasing is either "based on needs" or "based on a need". The phrase "based on a needs" is grammatically incorrect.
Is it ever correct to use "based on a needs"?
No, "based on a needs" is not grammatically correct in standard English. The article "a" is used before singular nouns, so it should be "based on a need" if you're referring to a single requirement. If you are refering to multiple requirements then you can use "based on needs".
What are some alternatives to "based on needs"?
Alternatives include "according to needs", "driven by needs", or "dictated by needs" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
How do I choose between "based on a need" and "based on needs"?
Use "based on a need" when referring to a single, specific requirement. Use "based on needs" when referring to multiple, possibly general, requirements.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested