basis for discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basis for discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a common starting point for two or more people to have a conversation or debate. For example: "We need to create a basis for discussion if we are going to reach an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Firstly in a semi-quantitative way to identify issues most frequently discussed, and secondly to provide a basis for discussion of issues emerging within each theme, focusing in particular on possible changes that were demanded of local health services.

BMC Health Services Research

The themes and summaries were cross-checked and discussed within the research team to form the basis for discussion in the mode specific collaborative enquiry groups.

Health Research Policy and Systems

Israel said it was prepared to accept Mr. Clinton's proposals "as a basis for discussion".

The New York Times

"You make an offer, and that offer is the basis for discussion".

The New York Times

"Interests and human ideas should be the basis for discussion, not religion.

The New York Times

He announced that Israel was prepared to accept Mr. Clinton's proposals "as a basis for discussion, providing that they will stay, as they are, a basis for discussion acceptable to the Palestinians".

The New York Times

Their answers appear on a screen at the front of the room, and form the basis for discussion.

The Guardian

He suggested that the state offer a plan to be used as a basis for discussion and that the plaintiffs respond to that proposal.

The New York Times

It's important that the sector fully engages with the changes to the research assessment process and we hope this report provides those involved with a basis for discussion".

The Guardian

He told the Guardian: "The G77 [group of more than 100 developing countries] could not take this [proposal] as the basis for discussion.

The Guardian

Like most colleagues he called it a "good basis" for discussion at the inter-governmental conference (IGC) which will finalise the text this winter.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "basis for discussion" to indicate a shared understanding or agreement on a preliminary point, even if disagreements are expected later.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone involved in a discussion knows the "basis". Always clarify the source, data, or assumptions that form the foundation for the conversation to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis for discussion" functions as a noun phrase. It identifies the foundation, reason, or starting point upon which a conversation or debate is built. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use and grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

49%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "basis for discussion" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that denotes the foundation or starting point for a conversation. It's most common in scientific and news & media contexts, but can be used in formal business settings as well. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely accepted and understood, making it a reliable choice for expressing the idea of a shared foundation for meaningful dialogue. Ensure clarity by explicitly stating the basis to prevent misunderstandings, and consider alternatives like "foundation for discussion" or "starting point for discussion" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foundation for discussion

Replaces "basis" with "foundation", emphasizing the fundamental nature of the starting point.

groundwork for discussion

Uses "groundwork" to highlight the preparatory work done to enable discussion.

starting point for discussion

More directly states the idea of a "starting point" instead of implying it.

framework for discussion

Emphasizes the structured nature of the foundation for discussion.

platform for discussion

Metaphorically uses "platform" to represent a raised area or opportunity for discussion.

springboard for discussion

Suggests that the topic will facilitate a rapid and lively discussion.

premise for discussion

Highlights the underlying assumption upon which the discussion is built.

reason for discussion

Focuses on the justification or purpose behind the discussion.

impetus for discussion

Highlights the driving force or motivation for starting the discussion.

catalyst for discussion

Implies that the topic will trigger or accelerate the discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "basis for discussion" in a sentence?

You can use "basis for discussion" to indicate a starting point or foundation for a conversation, for example, "The report provided a solid "basis for discussion" about the company's future strategy."

What is a good alternative to "basis for discussion"?

Alternatives include "foundation for discussion", "starting point for discussion", or "framework for discussion", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "basis of discussion" or "basis for discussion"?

"Basis for discussion" is the more common and grammatically sound choice. "Basis of discussion" is less frequently used and can sound awkward.

What's the difference between "basis for discussion" and "agenda for discussion"?

"Basis for discussion" refers to the underlying foundation or starting point of a conversation, while "agenda for discussion" outlines the specific topics or points to be covered.