basis of what

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basis of what" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when questioning the foundation or reasoning behind a statement, decision, or argument. Example: "Can you clarify the basis of what you just said regarding the project's timeline?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On the basis of what?

The New York Times

On the basis of what, some of us would ask.

The Guardian - Opinion

"That is the whole basis of what we do.

The Guardian - Sport

That's the basis of what I believe in".

The New York Times - Sports

If so, on the basis of what evidence?

The Guardian - Opinion

Professor Craig Wright: Okay, Symphonie fantastique, the basis of what?

Yale University

We must decide, he often says, not on the basis of what is meant, but on the basis of what is said.

The New York Times

Normally, we seek evidence, and form conclusions on the basis of what we find.

The Guardian - Opinion

Invest in a company on the basis of what a company says?

The New Yorker

Secrecy is the basis of what we do, and we require your extreme discretion.

The New Yorker

They are tests that select and segregate children on the basis of what they can't do.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "basis of what" consider if the context requires a more formal or direct alternative, such as "on what grounds" or "what is the rationale?"

Common error

Avoid using "basis of what" when referring to physical objects or concrete items. It's generally used for abstract concepts, reasoning, or justifications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis of what" functions as a prepositional phrase used to question or inquire about the foundation, justification, or reasoning behind a statement, action, or belief. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "basis of what" is a versatile prepositional phrase employed to question or challenge the foundation of a statement or action. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. While suitable for various contexts, including news, academic discussions, and general discourse, it's essential to consider the nuance required in formal settings, where alternatives like "on what basis" might be more appropriate. The phrase's frequency and presence in authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times underscore its relevance in contemporary English. Therefore, using this phrase to challenge the evidence, assumptions or logic in an argument is widely appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on what grounds

Focuses specifically on the justification or reasons for something.

upon what foundation

Emphasizes the fundamental principles or elements that something is built on.

with what justification

Directly challenges the reasons provided to support something.

by what authority

Questions the legitimacy or authorization behind an action or decision.

what's the justification

Short version of "what is the justification".

what evidence supports

Specifically seeks the proof or data that validates a claim.

according to what

Inquires about the source or standard being used.

what is the rationale

Asks for the underlying logic or reasoning behind an action or decision.

based on which criteria

Highlights the specific standards or measures used for evaluation.

on whose say-so

Questions the person or entity providing the authorization.

FAQs

How can I use "basis of what" in a sentence?

You can use "basis of what" to question the reasoning or evidence behind a statement. For example, "On the "basis of what" evidence are you making that claim?"

What's the difference between "basis of what" and "on what basis"?

"Basis of what" often implies a request for clarification or justification, while "on what basis" is a more formal way to ask about the underlying reasons or principles. They are largely interchangeable but carry slightly different tones.

What are some alternatives to "basis of what"?

Alternatives include "on what grounds", "according to what", or "what is the rationale?" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "basis of what" appropriate for formal writing?

While usable, "basis of what" might be considered less formal. In professional or academic contexts, consider using "on what basis" or "what is the justification?" for a more polished tone.