based on a theme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on a theme" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that is derived from or influenced by a particular theme, such as in literature, art, or design. Example: "The novel is based on a theme of redemption and personal growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

More recently, "Country Bears," one of the first movies based on a theme park attraction, brought in a paltry $5 million its first weekend.

The New York Times

The big difference is that in 7 Wonders each of the games levels is based on a theme, which of course is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

TechCrunch

Traditionally everyone brings a dish based on a theme.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The interior is based on a theme of white and black — like a piano keyboard.

The New York Times

It's based on a theme from Marvel Comics about the superhero wars where the superheroes fought each other.

The Guardian - Tech

The concert will end with his "Lyric Interludes," a string quartet based on a theme by Prokofiev.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Generally speaking, we can confirm what assumed by Prosperi et al. (2015, pp. 7 8), finding out that indicators sets of food systems assessments are preferably based on a theme-based or goal-oriented framework.

City, Territory and Architecture

"The Country Bears," which opens today nationwide, has the distinction of being the only current movie (and, so far as I can recall, the only one ever) to be based on a theme-park attraction.

The New York Times

Based on a theme-park ride.

The New York Times - Arts

WE all laughed when Disney decided to make a film based on a theme-park ride.

The New York Times

For his decision to star in a film based on a theme-park ride, detractors called him a sell-out, but Depp emerged from Pirates with his first Oscar nomination and his reputation intact.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing creative works, use "based on a theme" to clearly indicate the source of inspiration or conceptual framework. This establishes a clear connection between the core idea and its manifestation in the work.

Common error

Avoid using "based on a theme" when you simply mean 'about a subject'. A theme is a recurring idea or motif, not just a general topic. For example, a story might be about 'war' (subject) but based on a theme of 'the futility of conflict'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on a theme" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun or noun phrase. It indicates the underlying concept or motif that something is derived from or structured around. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard and acceptable usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on a theme" serves as a versatile tool for specifying the conceptual foundation of diverse subjects, from artistic creations to structured activities. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage across various domains—including news, academia, and encyclopedias—underscore its effectiveness in clear communication. When using this phrase, remember to differentiate between a 'theme' and a general 'subject' to ensure precision. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "themed around" or "inspired by a motif" to tailor your writing to specific contexts. With these insights, you can confidently incorporate "based on a theme" into your writing, maintaining clarity and enhancing your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

themed around

Emphasizes the thematic element as the central organizing principle.

centered on a topic

Highlights the topic as the focal point.

inspired by a motif

Focuses on the motif as the source of inspiration.

founded on a concept

Indicates a conceptual basis or starting point.

drawing inspiration from a subject

Emphasizes the act of deriving inspiration.

using a subject as its foundation

Highlights the subject as the base or support.

built upon a central idea

Indicates the existence of a core idea upon which something is constructed.

structured around a leitmotif

Emphasizes a recurring element or theme.

taking its cue from a subject

Highlights the subject as a sign or signal.

developed from a premise

Indicates a starting point or assumption.

FAQs

How can I use "based on a theme" in a sentence?

You can use "based on a theme" to describe something that takes its inspiration or central idea from a particular theme. For example, "The party was based on a theme of the Roaring Twenties".

What are some alternatives to "based on a theme"?

You can use alternatives like "themed around", "centered on a topic", or "inspired by a motif" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "based off a theme" instead of "based on a theme"?

While "based off" is sometimes used informally, "based on" is generally considered more grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing. "Based on a theme" is the preferred choice in most contexts.

What's the difference between "inspired by a theme" and "based on a theme"?

"Inspired by a theme" suggests a looser connection, where the theme serves as a source of inspiration. "Based on a theme" implies a more fundamental reliance, where the entire structure or concept is "founded on a concept".