based on the play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on the play" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a work, such as a film or adaptation, that derives its content or inspiration from a specific play. Example: "The movie is based on the play 'Hamlet' by William Shakespeare."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Gutierrez's production verged delightfully close to melodrama, and the two powerful film versions of James' novel (one directed by William Wyler based on the play, the other by Agnieszka Holland) are also arranged in a minor key.

Huffington Post

Based on the play by Lorraine Hansberry.

The New York Times - Arts

LITTLE HAM Based on the play by Langston Hughes.

The New York Times

Based on the play "The Immigrant" by Mr. Harelik.

The New York Times

COUNT BASIE THEATER "A Midsummer Night's Dream," ballet based on the play; Company of Dance Arts.

The New York Times

THEATER FORUM THEATER COMPANY "The Jazz Singer," based on the play by Samuel Raphaelson.

The New York Times

A film based on the play has been a longtime passion project for Ms. Close.

The New York Times

He also developed innovative fabric patterns based on the play of arithmetical combinations and a sense of rhythmic movement.

The New York Times

The Riot Club – based on the play Posh – offers a story just as thrilling but, tragically, far more common.

The Guardian - Film

Ahead of its shoot, a spin-off short film based on the play will be released in November.

The Guardian

He and Mitchell agreed on a limited edition of wood engravings based on the play, printed on handmade papers.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "based on the play", ensure that the subsequent text clearly identifies the specific play being referenced. This avoids ambiguity and provides context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid assuming the audience knows the play you're referring to. Always provide enough context or specify the play's title, especially if it's less well-known. For example, don't just say "The film is based on the play", but instead say, "The film is based on the play "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on the play" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, typically indicating that a subsequent work (such as a film, musical, or opera) has its origins in a specific dramatic work. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

17%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on the play" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe adaptations of theatrical works. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase effectively conveys the origin of a film, musical, or other creative work. It is most frequently used in news and media, but also appears in encyclopedias and general writing. When using this phrase, clarity is key: always specify the play being referenced to avoid confusion. Alternatives such as "adapted from the play" or "inspired by the play" offer nuanced variations in meaning. By following these guidelines, writers can confidently and accurately describe the relationship between plays and their adaptations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adapted from the play

Emphasizes the transformation process from the original play.

based off the play

Uses "off" instead of "on", conveying the same meaning but is slightly less formal.

derived from the play

Highlights the origin of the work in question, focusing on the source material.

originating from the play

Focuses on the play as the starting point or foundation.

taken from the play

Implies direct borrowing of elements from the play.

inspired by the play

Suggests a looser connection, where the play served as a creative spark rather than a direct source.

drawing from the play

Suggests a selection of elements from the play rather than a complete adaptation.

developed from the play

Highlights the evolution and expansion of the original play's ideas.

with its roots in the play

Emphasizes the deep connection and historical origin within the play.

a play adaptation

Reorders the phrase to emphasize the adaptation itself.

FAQs

How do I use "based on the play" in a sentence?

Use "based on the play" to describe a work (like a movie, musical, or opera) that takes its story or characters from a specific play. For example, "The musical is based on the play 'Romeo and Juliet' by William Shakespeare."

What can I say instead of "based on the play"?

You can use alternatives like "adapted from the play", "derived from the play", or "inspired by the play" to convey a similar meaning depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "based off the play" instead of "based on the play"?

While "based off the play" is sometimes used and understood, "based on the play" is generally considered more formal and grammatically correct. It's a matter of style and preference, but "based on" is often preferred in professional writing.

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

"Based on the play" suggests a more direct adaptation, where the source material is closely followed. "Inspired by the play", on the other hand, indicates a looser connection, where the play served as a starting point but the adapted work may deviate significantly from the original.