basis for this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'basis for this' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to something upon which an opinion or conclusion is based. For example, "After careful consideration, we have decided to move forward with the project. The basis for this decision is our calculations of the potential revenue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's the basis for this puzzle.

The New York Times

There was no basis for this investigation.

The New York Times

"There is a basis for this movement.

The New York Times

What is the basis for this prediction?

The New Yorker

There's some real-world basis for this.

The New Yorker

Is there a scientific basis for this?

The New York Times

But the basis for this is flimsy.

The Guardian

But what's the basis for this?

MIT Technology Review

There is no basis for this claim.

Cornell University

I don't think there's a biological basis for this.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The basis for this prosperity model is continuing population growth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "basis for this", ensure that the connection between the stated basis and the subsequent conclusion is clear and logical. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "basis for this" without clearly specifying what the "this" refers to. Ensure the referent is unambiguous within the context to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis for this" functions as a noun phrase that introduces an explanation or justification. As Ludwig confirms, it's used to indicate the foundation or reason behind a statement, action, or belief. Examples show it connecting data to conclusions or justifying claims.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

29%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "basis for this" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce the foundation or reasoning behind a statement, decision, or phenomenon. As Ludwig confirms, it is widely used in various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. Its primary function is to provide clarification and justification, offering underlying reasons and evidence. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating the connection between the basis and the conclusion. While versatile, it's important to avoid vague references by clearly defining what "this" refers to. Alternatives like "rationale behind this" or "justification for this" may suit more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rationale behind this

Focuses on the reasoning or explanation behind a decision or action, rather than just the foundation.

justification for this

Highlights the reasons or evidence used to support or defend something, often implying a need to explain or defend a position.

reason for this

Emphasizes the cause or motive behind an event or decision, often used when seeking an explanation.

underlying cause of this

Points to a fundamental or less obvious reason behind a phenomenon, suggesting a deeper analysis.

foundation for this

Stresses the fundamental principles or structure upon which something is built, whether literal or conceptual.

grounds for this

Refers to the legal or factual reasons that support a particular action or claim, often used in formal contexts.

premise of this

Highlights the initial assumption or proposition on which an argument or theory is based.

source of this

Indicates the origin or starting point of something, often used when tracing the development of an idea or problem.

the why behind this

Simplifies the inquiry to a basic question of motivation or purpose, suitable for informal contexts.

the impetus for this

Emphasizes the driving force or initial motivation that led to a particular action or development.

FAQs

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

You can use "basis for this" to introduce the reason or justification for a statement, decision, or action. For example, "The "basis for this" conclusion is the data collected over the past year".

What's a more formal alternative to "basis for this"?

In a formal context, you could use "rationale for this" or "justification for this" to convey a similar meaning with a more sophisticated tone.

Is there a difference between "reason for this" and "basis for this"?

"Reason for this" typically refers to the cause or explanation, while "basis for this" often implies a foundation or underlying principle. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing the cause or the fundamental support.

What are some synonyms for "basis for this"?

Some synonyms include "foundation for this", "ground for this", and "premise of this", each with slightly different connotations depending on the context.