is only based on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is only based on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something relies solely on a specific foundation or source. Example: "The conclusion of the study is only based on the data collected from the initial survey."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And that extra profit is only based on one year.

Huffington Post

Unfortunately, this is only based on one gene and its published expression pattern.

eLife

However the authors' conclusion is only based on two genes (one from archea origin and the other from bacterial origin).

Biology Direct

I don't want to see one that is only based on a free market.

The Guardian

Remember, this data is only based on the activity on Jumptap's own network, which could be skewed one way or another, but it sounds about right.

TechCrunch

I somehow don't think he will, though that is only based on guesswork.

The New York Times

Our method is only based on orthogonal transformations and hence is numerically reliable.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Our numerical method is only based on orthogonal transformations and hence is numerically reliable.

Automatica

Fairness provided by MadMac is only based on information provided by the 802.11 MAC layer.

Ad Hoc Networks

The proposed model is only based on the thermodynamic laws and the thermodynamic properties of refrigerants.

Applied Thermal Engineering

For the 1D-beam analysis, the solution is only based on the ME technique.

Composite Structures

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is only based on", ensure that the limited scope is clear to the reader. Clearly state what the basis is, to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The conclusion is only based on preliminary data".

Common error

Avoid drawing broad generalizations when your analysis "is only based on" limited evidence. Clearly acknowledge the limitations of your data or methodology.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is only based on" functions as a qualifier, limiting the scope or foundation of a statement, argument, or analysis. According to Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used in academic, news, and scientific contexts to acknowledge the specific basis for a conclusion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

29%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is only based on" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something relies solely on a particular foundation or source. Ludwig AI confirms this, and the phrase sees frequent use in scientific, news, and academic writing. When using "is only based on", be sure to clearly identify the basis and avoid drawing overly broad conclusions. Related phrases include "is solely based on" and "is purely based on". Understanding its function helps ensure clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is purely based on

Emphasizes the exclusive nature of the basis; it is entirely and simply based on something.

is solely based on

Highlights that the foundation is the single, exclusive factor.

is just based on

Conveys a simple, straightforward reliance.

is exclusively based on

Stresses the exclusion of all other factors except one.

is simply based on

Suggests ease and straightforwardness in the reliance.

exists only based on

Focuses on the conditional existence dependent on a specific factor.

is merely based on

Downplays the significance or extent of the foundation.

is entirely dependent on

Focuses on complete reliance but uses different phrasing.

is conditional upon

Highlights the dependence as a necessary condition.

hinges solely upon

Implies that the outcome dramatically depends on the specified factor.

FAQs

How can I use "is only based on" in a sentence?

Use "is only based on" to show that a statement, conclusion, or decision relies solely on a specific set of information or criteria. For example, "The movie's plot is only based on actual events, not a true retelling."

What phrases are similar to "is only based on"?

Alternatives include "is solely based on", "is purely based on", or "is exclusively based on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is only based on"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the limited scope or foundation of a particular claim, argument, or analysis. This helps set realistic expectations and acknowledges potential limitations.

Is there a difference between "is based on" and "is only based on"?

"Is based on" indicates a foundation or source, while "is only based on" highlights that the foundation is limited or exclusive. The addition of "only" adds emphasis to the restricted scope.