basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "basis" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to refer to a foundation or starting point upon which something is built. For example, "The understanding of algebra is based on a solid mathematical basis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Writers who successfully complete the course will receive a successful completion certificate from UEA, which will be made on the basis of ongoing assessment and a final submission of at least 10,000 words.

The Guardian

"Huma represents what is best about America – the daughter of immigrants, who has risen to the highest levels of our government on the basis of her substantial personal merit and her abiding commitment to the American ideals that she embodies so fully.

The Guardian

Chope asked Cameron in the first question at prime minister's questions: "Can [he] say in response to the many concerns expressed in yesterday's debate will he ensure that civil partnerships are open to heterosexual couples on an equal basis with homosexual couples?" The prime minister replied: "I will obviously listen carefully to what he says.

The Guardian

And they were passed from man to man - sometimes on a daily basis.

BBC

The most significant retrenchment programs on a per capita basis have been those of Greece.

The New York Times

A November report by a British thinktank noted a rise in close military encounters between Russia and the west this year, including "violations of national airspace, emergency scrambles, narrowly avoided mid-air collisions, close encounters at sea, simulated attack runs and other dangerous actions happening on a regular basis over a very wide geographical area".

The Guardian

Writing days before Abdullah's death, the American author Stephen Kinzer warned that the basis of the west's relationship with the Saudi regime was shifting in fundamental ways, while Saudi Arabia's position in a region beset by insurrection and civil war was ever less secure.

The Guardian

However, Thomas points to a lack of critical discussion and explanation of the very basis for Prevent's community work, the rationale for how some areas are selected rather than others, and a lack of transparency about the proportion of spending on combating different types of extremism.

The Guardian

On an underlying basis, as measured by earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation, the Guardian and Observer lost £22m, but the cash loss, a more accurate measure of financial performance, was larger at £33m.

The Guardian

It is deeply condescending towards the electorate to think votes are won on the basis of a politician's partner.

The Guardian - Opinion

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The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "basis", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a foundation for an argument, a frequency, or a mathematical concept.

Common error

Avoid using "basis" when a more specific term like "foundation", "reason", or "frequency" would provide greater clarity. Using more specific words can help to make your meaning more clear.

Linguistic Context

The word "basis" primarily functions as a noun, denoting a foundation, starting point, or underlying principle upon which something is established or reasoned. Ludwig AI exemplifies its usage in contexts ranging from arguments to frequencies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

31%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "basis" is a versatile noun that serves as a foundational element in English communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and wide applicability make it a valuable asset for any writer. It's often used to describe a starting point, reason, or frequency. With its frequent appearance in respected news outlets like The Guardian and The New York Times, "basis" maintains a neutral register and demonstrates its relevance across various contexts. When employing "basis", it's crucial to consider the intended meaning, whether it's the underlying support for an argument or the frequency of an event, and to choose the most appropriate synonym if a more specific term is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foundation

Replaces "basis" with a direct synonym, emphasizing the underlying support or groundwork.

groundwork

Similar to "foundation", suggesting the preliminary work or preparation.

reason

Focuses on the justification or explanation for something.

justification

Emphasizes the act of showing something to be right or reasonable.

rationale

Highlights the underlying principles or logic.

premise

Refers to a proposition upon which an argument is based.

underlying principle

Specifies that the basis is a fundamental rule or concept.

starting point

Indicates the initial stage or origin of something.

core

Highlights the central or most important part.

point of departure

Suggests a place from which a journey or endeavor begins.

FAQs

How can I use "basis" in a sentence?

You can use "basis" to indicate a foundation or starting point, as in "The decision was made on the basis of new evidence" or to indicate a frequency, as in "We meet on a weekly basis".

What's the difference between "basis" and "foundation"?

"Basis" generally refers to the underlying support or reason for something, while "foundation" often implies a more physical or structural support. They are often interchangeable, but "foundation" can sometimes imply a more concrete base.

What can I say instead of "on a regular basis"?

You can use alternatives like "regularly", "frequently", or "periodically" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "based off of" instead of "based on" when using "basis"?

While "based off of" is sometimes used colloquially, "based on" is generally considered more grammatically correct and appropriate in formal writing. Stick to using "based on" for clarity and precision.