not based on

USAGE SUMMARY

"not based on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that does not rely on a particular thing or idea. For example, you could say that a certain outcome was "not based on luck".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's not based on one-off projects.

The Guardian

It was not based on one 45-minute telephone call.

The New York Times

It's not based on hatred.

The New York Times - Sports

The hunts are not based on biology.

The New York Times

It is not based on factual issues".

The New Yorker

"This deal is not based on trust.

The Guardian

"It was not based on theological merit".

The New York Times

"That number is not based on reality".

The New York Times

That's not based on what happened.

The New York Times - Sports

They are not based on facts".

The New York Times

Pick: Chiefs (not based on spread).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not based on", ensure the contrast is clear. Explicitly state what the subject is based on to provide context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "not based on" when a weaker connection is intended. If something is merely influenced rather than directly based on something else, consider using terms like "influenced by" or "related to" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not based on" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun. It indicates a lack of foundation or origin, often contrasting what something is based on with what it is not based on. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not based on" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something lacks a foundation or origin in a particular factor. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts, showcasing its versatility. When using this phrase, it's essential to provide a clear contrast, indicating what the subject is based on to avoid ambiguity. While similar phrases like "not founded on" or "independent of" can be used as alternatives, the specific context should guide your choice. Ensure the connection is truly absent rather than merely weak, and always aim for clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not founded on

This alternative emphasizes the lack of a firm foundation or basis.

not reliant on

Similar to "not based on", but stresses the absence of dependence.

not predicated on

This suggests that something doesn't depend on the stated factor as a prior condition.

without a basis in

Highlights the absence of a rational or factual foundation.

not contingent on

Indicates that something isn't conditional or dependent on another factor.

unrelated to

This indicates a lack of connection or relevance to a specific subject.

independent of

This emphasizes that one thing does not rely on or influence another.

not stemming from

Emphasizes that something does not originate or arise from a particular source.

disconnected from

Suggests a separation or absence of a logical connection.

irrelevant to

This indicates the lack of importance or pertinence to a given matter.

FAQs

What does "not based on" mean?

The phrase "not based on" indicates that something does not originate from, rely upon, or have a foundation in a particular source, idea, or fact.

How can I use "not based on" in a sentence?

You can use "not based on" to express that a decision, belief, or theory is independent of specific factors. For example, "The conclusion was "not based on evidence" but on intuition."

What are some alternatives to "not based on"?

Alternatives include phrases like "not founded on", "independent of", or "unrelated to", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to say "not based on" or "not reliant on"?

Both "not based on" and "not reliant on" are grammatically correct and similar in meaning. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Based on" emphasizes foundation, while "reliant on" emphasizes dependence.