indefinite basis

USAGE SUMMARY

'indefinite basis' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a duration of time or a state of affairs which is not fixed or definite. For example, "They agreed to work together on an indefinite basis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The team responded to the incident by suspending Ball and the two other players who were arrested, Cody Riley and Jalen Hill, on an indefinite basis.

The New York Times - Sports

All patients were informed of the importance of returning, after completing radiotherapy, for regular follow-up dental examinations on an indefinite basis.

Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology

These exiles, many of whom were labeled "antisocial" but not accused of having committed any crime, were to remain in cages in the United States on an indefinite basis, with no prospects of being set free.

The New York Times

Broadcom named Alan E. Ross Alan E. Ross interim chief operating officer on an indefinite basis.

Forbes

Harford also claimed Uber was positioned to be able to invest in its chosen growth markets on "an indefinite basis", thanks to having reached profitability in other markets.

TechCrunch

But the ECJ will continue to play a role, because this agreement says UK courts will have to pay "due regard" to its decisions on an indefinite basis.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

According to the UNCITRAL Model Law of 2011, a framework agreement procedure may be used when the procuring entity expects the need for procurement to arise on a repeated, indefinite, or urgent basis during a given period of time.

Global health, science and practice

Unless Mr. Obama wants to assert the untenable position that the war on terror or the war on Al Qaeda continue everywhere and indefinitely, then the legal basis for further indefinite detention will end.

The New York Times

One of the main safety goals is to achieve indefinite cooling following design basis accidents (DBAs) using atmosphere air as ultimate heat sink.

Annals of Nuclear Energy

It would resist using the post- 9/11 and Iraq situation to keep alleged suspects in indefinite detention on the basis of secret evidence they have not been allowed to see and cannot challenge.

The Guardian

The argument is that the potential threat of injury, representing as it does only a possibility for the indefinite future, is no basis for a decree in an interstate suit since we cannot issue declaratory decrees.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "indefinite basis" with qualifiers to add nuance. For example, 'The project is on an indefinite basis, pending further funding' clarifies the reason for the uncertain duration.

Common error

Avoid treating something on an "indefinite basis" as permanent. The phrase implies uncertainty, so always be prepared for potential changes or termination of the arrangement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indefinite basis" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the duration or condition under which an action is performed or a state exists. It specifies that something is happening without a fixed or predetermined endpoint.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "indefinite basis" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something lacking a fixed duration, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's found across diverse contexts, from news and media to science and formal business settings. To avoid ambiguity, ensure the context clearly identifies what is subject to the indefinite condition, and be mindful that it implies potential changes. Related phrases include "unspecified duration" and "open-ended arrangement". It is important to be accurate when employing this expression and, as Ludwig AI confirms, to make the writing more precise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unspecified duration

Focuses on the lack of a defined timeframe.

unfixed term

Emphasizes the absence of a predetermined period.

open-ended arrangement

Highlights the flexible nature of the agreement.

temporary arrangement

Specifies an agreement with potential for changes in duration.

subject to change

Stresses the possibility of alterations over time.

as needed

Emphasizes adaptability to evolving requirements.

provisional arrangement

Indicates a preliminary agreement subject to finalization.

ad hoc fashion

Highlights the spontaneous and unplanned character of the activity.

fluid timeline

Underscores the flexible nature of the schedule.

long-term basis

Highlights the unspecified character of a long lasting action.

FAQs

How can I use "indefinite basis" in a sentence?

You can use "indefinite basis" to describe something that is not fixed or definite. For example: "The team responded to the incident by suspending Ball and the two other players who were arrested, Cody Riley and Jalen Hill, on an indefinite basis."

What's the difference between "temporary basis" and "indefinite basis"?

"Temporary basis" suggests a known, limited duration, while "indefinite basis" implies an unknown or uncertain duration.

What are some alternatives to saying "indefinite basis"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "unspecified duration", "open-ended arrangement", or "as needed".

Is it correct to use "indefinite basis" in formal writing?

Yes, "indefinite basis" is appropriate for formal writing. It clearly conveys that something is not determined or fixed in duration. Ludwig confirms that the expression is valid.