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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
less based on
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "less based on" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It can be used when comparing the degree to which something is influenced or determined by another factor, but it is better to use clearer alternatives. Example: "The new policy is less based on previous research and more on current data."
News & Media
Science
Academia
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
58 human-written examples
This can be seen particularly in the regression model-based formulae, which are less based on rational principles like the one in Eurocode 6.
A more strategic approach to investment, one less based on the whims of individual members of Congress, would also help.
News & Media
One percent declared an income of $200 or less based on the sale of one or more short stories to a literary journal.
News & Media
Though precise breakdowns are hard to come by — demographers have yet to track all the different types of gay families — for many gay parents, the family structure is more or less based on a heterosexual model: two parents, one household.
News & Media
Annual income among jail-based participants was categorized as $15,000 or less based on the Medicaid minimum income eligibility cut-off.
Science
Your children and loved ones won't love you more or less based on the gifts you give.
News & Media
Landward slope design is more or less based on experience.
Science
The characters are more or less based on real people or composites.
News & Media
Stephen Potter's Gamesmanship books were advocating an approach to life more or less based on cheating.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
2 human-written examples
Never-the-less, based on these results we suggest that targeting the HGF/c-met/Stat3 pathway could be an especially effective strategy for cancer therapy.
Science
Zimmerman's Latino heritage does not make killing Trayvon any less-based on racism.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "less based on", ensure you clearly articulate what the subject is now more reliant on, to provide a balanced perspective. For example, instead of saying "The decision was less based on seniority," specify "The decision was less based on seniority and more on performance".
Common error
Avoid using "less based on" without specifying a clear alternative basis. This can leave the reader unsure of the actual foundation, making the statement weaker and less informative.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "less based on" functions as a comparative prepositional phrase, indicating a reduced degree of reliance or foundation on a particular element. It sets up a comparison, implying that something is now relying on something else to a greater extent.
Frequent in
News & Media
47%
Science
43%
Academia
7%
Less common in
Wiki
2%
Formal & Business
1%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "less based on" serves as a comparative phrase indicating a reduction in reliance on a particular factor. While Ludwig AI categorizes it as acceptable, it benefits from clear context and a defined alternative basis to enhance clarity. Found frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, it maintains a neutral register. For enhanced precision, consider alternatives such as "less reliant on" or "less dependent on". Remember, clearly stating what something is now based on is crucial for effective communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
less reliant on
Focuses on the reduced dependence or reliance on something.
less dependent on
Highlights the decreased level of dependency.
less predicated on
Emphasizes that something is not primarily founded or established on something else.
less contingent on
Suggests a lower degree of conditionality or dependence on something.
less determined by
Indicates a weaker influence or determination by a particular factor.
less influenced by
Focuses on the reduced degree of influence from something.
not as rooted in
Emphasizes that something is not as deeply grounded or established in a particular thing.
not as tied to
Highlights the reduced level of connection or association.
not as much from
Indicates a reduced quantity or degree of something originating from a specific source.
to a lesser extent based on
Formally expresses the reduced degree of reliance or dependence.
FAQs
How can I rephrase the sentence using "less based on" for better clarity?
Consider using alternatives like "less reliant on" or "less dependent on". Providing a contrasting element after the phrase, clarifying what the subject is now more based on, significantly improves understanding.
Is it grammatically correct to use "less based on"?
While generally acceptable, it's crucial to ensure the sentence structure is clear and that the comparison is well-defined. Ludwig AI's analysis suggests it is usable but can benefit from more specific wording.
What are some common synonyms for "less based on"?
Common synonyms include "less predicated on", "less contingent on", or "less influenced by". Each option slightly alters the emphasis of the sentence.
When should I avoid using "less based on"?
Avoid using it in highly formal contexts where precision is paramount. In such cases, opt for more direct and descriptive alternatives that eliminate any potential ambiguity.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested