basis for why

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basis for why" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining the underlying reasons or justifications for a particular statement or action. Example: "The study provides a solid basis for why we should reconsider our approach to climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

"It has become an amazingly powerful tool to dissect the molecular basis for why these diseases develop and to help us ways to breed out complex inherited diseases".

The Guardian

I think it is important, because there's definitely an erotic basis for why vampires are such powerful symbols in our psyches.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The study was undertaken by Genaissance Pharmaceuticals, a biotechnology company in New Haven, to discover the genetic basis for why individuals respond differently to given drugs.

The New York Times

The code is the conceptual basis for why it all works, but it is at the surface level where the magic happens, those fizzy, sensory delights that make the gaming experience fun.

The New York Times - Books

"The U.S. needs to establish a very clear legal basis for why they are holding Afghan citizens on Afghan soil, and right now there is no clear agreement between the two countries that gives the U.S. that right," said Sahr Muhammed Ally, a lawyer with Human Rights First, a New York-based group, who has studied detention arrangements in Afghanistan and at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.

The New York Times

This then forms the basis for why EXT precludes SK.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Our findings provide a basis for understanding why this transcription factor is controlled by RNA molecules including 7SK and TAR.

Plosone

On the contrary, the emotional response of mynas to novelty, which is known to play a decisive role in the problem-solving ability in other bird species [19], [ but see 27], provides a strong basis for understanding why highly urbanized birds are more innovative than less urbanized birds.

Plosone

An understanding of these processes will provide a basis for explaining why βcell genesis fails in type 2 diabetes.

DMM Disease Models and Mechanisms

This was the basis for understanding why their individual hygiene -, therapy - and maintenance strategies were selected, for compliance and for motivation and skills developed.

BMC Oral Health

This paper describes a clear conceptual model, based on several sources of evidence, which helps to articulate the theoretical basis for how, why and under what circumstances telehealth could provide specified benefits for patients with chronic health conditions.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "basis for why", ensure that the context clearly establishes a causal relationship or justification. Consider whether a more direct alternative, like "reason why", might improve clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "basis for why" in simple sentences where a more straightforward phrasing, such as "reason" or "cause", would suffice. Overusing complex constructions can make your writing sound unnecessarily convoluted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis for why" functions as a causal connector, linking a foundation or rationale to a subsequent explanation. As supported by Ludwig AI, it introduces the underlying reasons or justifications, which provides support for the statement or action.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "basis for why" is grammatically sound and serves as a causal connector, typically found in contexts demanding clear reasoning. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its frequency is relatively low, suggesting it might not always be the most common choice. Alternatives like "reason why" or "explanation for why" may offer more directness in certain situations. Predominantly used in science and news, the phrase benefits from careful consideration to prevent overcomplication and ensure clarity. Though correct, adopting simpler alternatives can enhance readability. In summary, "basis for why" is valid but should be employed thoughtfully, with consideration given to context and alternative phrasings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reason why

Replaces "basis" with "reason", a more common and direct synonym, maintaining the causal structure.

explanation for why

Substitutes "basis" with "explanation", emphasizing the act of clarifying the cause.

justification for why

Replaces "basis" with "justification", highlighting the reasons that defend or vindicate something.

grounds for why

Uses "grounds" instead of "basis", indicating the fundamental reasons or facts.

rationale for why

Employs "rationale" in place of "basis", focusing on the underlying principles or logic.

foundation for why

Replaces "basis" with "foundation", stressing the fundamental support or groundwork.

underlying reason for

Rephrases to focus on the "underlying reason", moving away from the "basis" structure.

fundamental reason for

Similar to "underlying reason", but emphasizing the "fundamental" aspect.

primary cause of

Shifts the focus to the "cause", simplifying the sentence structure.

main reason for

Highlights the "main reason", making the cause the central point.

FAQs

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

Use "basis for why" to introduce the underlying reason or justification for an event or decision. For example, "The study provides the "basis for why" we need to reconsider our approach."

What are some alternatives to "basis for why"?

You can use alternatives such as "reason why", "explanation for why", or "justification for why" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "basis for why" grammatically correct?

Yes, "basis for why" is grammatically correct, although it can sometimes sound more formal than alternatives like "reason why". It is suitable for academic or professional writing where a more thorough explanation is needed.

What's the difference between "basis for why" and "reason why"?

"Basis for why" emphasizes the foundation or underlying support for a cause, whereas "reason why" is a more direct and general way to ask about the cause or explanation. The choice depends on the level of formality and the emphasis you want to place on the foundational aspect.