based on law

USAGE SUMMARY

"based on law" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a certain action or event that is subject to or required by law. For example: "We have the right to stay on this land based on law."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Mr Morales accused Chile of making "political decisions" rather than ones based on law.

BBC

Society will still be based on law and justice.

The Guardian - Opinion

Well, to start with, policy decisions are much better based on law rather than instinct.

The Guardian

China's developing capitalism is not solidly based on law, respect for property rights and free markets.

The Economist

That, the critics say, undermines the public's confidence that the courts will make decisions based on law, not politics.

The New York Times

freedom and equality of citizens must be based on law". Several other sources also show up with a Google search.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Most breaking news stories, especially ones based on law-enforcement sources, tend to be contradictory, confusing or incomplete.

The Washington Post

Government officials like Yoo and Mukasey have gleefully participated in smudging the line between a society based on laws and one that's based on executive supremacy.

Huffington Post

This approach also provides estimates for a population, but as it is based on laws of probability allows one to evaluate the uncertainty of the data [14].

Carbon Balance and Management

This approach also provides estimates for a population, but as it is based on laws of probability allows one to evaluate the uncertainty of the data [ 14].

Carbon Balance and Management

So let's set a few facts straight: the founders of Airbnb, Uber and the other 7,400 sharing economy initiatives around the world aren't building businesses based on law-breaking and tax evasion, they're responding to a changing landscape where people no longer need to rely on big business for products and services.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "based on law", ensure that you can specifically identify the relevant law or legal principle. Avoid vague references.

Common error

Do not use "based on law" to justify actions that are merely influenced by legal considerations. The action should be directly mandated or permitted by a specific law, rather than just generally aligned with the legal framework.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on law" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is founded or determined by legal principles. Ludwig AI shows this usage in numerous examples, demonstrating its descriptive role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

24%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "based on law" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that something is founded upon legal principles. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe actions, decisions, or systems with a legal basis. It frequently appears in news, scientific, and academic contexts, denoting a neutral to formal register. While "based on law" is prevalent, it's crucial to use it accurately, ensuring a direct connection to specific legal mandates and avoiding overgeneralization. Alternatives such as "grounded in law" or "in accordance with the law" can be employed for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grounded in law

Replaces "based" with "grounded", emphasizing a firm foundation in legal principles.

founded upon law

Uses "founded upon" to highlight the legal basis as a core element.

predicated on law

Emphasizes that the law is a necessary condition or basis.

in accordance with the law

Focuses on compliance and alignment with legal standards.

pursuant to law

A more formal and legalistic alternative, indicating action taken under legal authority.

legally compliant

Shifts the focus to the state of being in compliance with the law.

authorized by law

Highlights the legal authorization or permission for something.

sanctioned by law

Emphasizes the legal approval or endorsement of an action.

consistent with the law

Focuses on maintaining consistency and harmony with legal requirements.

governed by law

Highlights that something is controlled and regulated by legal principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "based on law" to indicate that a decision, action, or policy is grounded in legal principles. For instance, "The court's decision was "grounded in law" and precedent."

What phrases are similar to "based on law"?

Alternatives include "in accordance with the law", "pursuant to law", or "legally compliant". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify which law something is based on?

While not always required, specifying the relevant law strengthens your argument and adds credibility. Providing specifics is particularly important in formal or legal contexts.

What is the difference between "based on law" and "influenced by law"?

"Based on law" implies a direct legal mandate or permission. "Influenced by law" suggests that legal considerations played a role but were not the sole determining factor. The former has a stronger, more direct connection to the law.