basic assumptions

USAGE SUMMARY

"basic assumptions" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
For example, you could use it in a sentence like this: "Our research proves that many of the basic assumptions we had about the data were incorrect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Start with two basic assumptions.

The Economist

PROJECT OXYGEN started with some basic assumptions.

The New York Times

Three basic assumptions are considered.

Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications

I do make two basic assumptions, however.

Nature

The high-risk move will test some basic assumptions.

The New York Times

He nowhere tests his basic assumptions against actual behaviour.

The Guardian - Books

Propose a solution that defies the profession's basic assumptions.

The New York Times

Today's changed technological context, additionally, invalidates FISA's basic assumptions.

MIT Technology Review

So we need to rethink our basic assumptions about privacy.

Harvard Business Review

Conventional conservation has got some basic assumptions about nature wrong.

Independent

It also forces one to question basic assumptions.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "basic assumptions", ensure they are explicitly stated to provide clarity and avoid misinterpretations. Transparency in outlining these assumptions strengthens the foundation of your arguments or analyses.

Common error

Avoid treating "basic assumptions" as unquestionable truths. Regularly re-evaluate their validity, as changes in context or new information can render them obsolete or inaccurate, potentially undermining your conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basic assumptions" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the fundamental beliefs or principles that underpin an argument, theory, or system. Ludwig AI shows it's a common construction used across many fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

41%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "basic assumptions" is a widely used phrase that refers to the fundamental beliefs or principles upon which an argument, theory, or system is based. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from academic and scientific writing to news and media. It's important to explicitly state these assumptions to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings. While common alternatives exist, such as "fundamental premises" or "underlying principles", "basic assumptions" remains a clear and effective way to introduce foundational concepts. Remember to critically evaluate your assumptions as new information arises to ensure continued validity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental premises

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the assumptions.

underlying principles

Focuses on the guiding rules or doctrines that form the basis of something.

core beliefs

Highlights the deeply held convictions that shape understanding.

foundational concepts

Stresses the basic building blocks of an idea or system.

starting points

Indicates the initial assumptions from which an argument or investigation begins.

initial hypotheses

Suggests assumptions that are used as a basis for testing or experimentation.

axiomatic truths

Implies self-evident or universally accepted assumptions.

presuppositions

Highlights assumptions that are taken for granted or assumed beforehand.

primary tenets

Focuses on the essential doctrines or beliefs of a system or ideology.

ground rules

Emphasizes the established principles or conditions for a particular activity or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "basic assumptions" in a sentence?

You can use "basic assumptions" to introduce fundamental principles. For example, "The study challenges the "basic assumptions" of modern economic theory."

What are some alternatives to "basic assumptions"?

Alternatives include "fundamental premises", "underlying principles", or "core beliefs" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "basic assumptions" and "hypotheses"?

"Basic assumptions" are foundational beliefs taken as true without proof, while "initial hypotheses" are testable statements used as a starting point for investigation.

Why is it important to identify "basic assumptions" in research?

Identifying "basic assumptions" ensures transparency and allows others to evaluate the validity and limitations of your work. It also highlights potential biases or areas needing further investigation.