premise on which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'premise on which' is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to introduce a statement that explains an idea or provides a basis for further discussion. For example: "The premise on which this argument is based is that human rights should be a priority in all matters of international law."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No one wants in any way to discourage the overall premise on which the first Test was played – it will go down as a classic.

The Guardian - Sport

It springs from the knowledge that even one independent candidate presents a threat to the very premise on which the whole system is based.

BBC

That's the same premise on which she designs her clothes.

The New York Times

It is the premise on which all humanistic inquiry is based.

The New Yorker

But that's not the premise on which public research universities were founded.

The Guardian

In two crisp sentences Greig skewers the shaky premise on which the nuclear options rest.

The Guardian

The calculation of his date of freedom is the premise on which the plot turns.

The New York Times

Trust and confidence are an odd premise on which to advance this report.

The Guardian - Tech

And he takes the argument further by questioning the political premise on which such Conceptualism was founded.

The New York Times - Arts

The existence of this motivation is the fundamental premise on which the ideas set forth in this book are based.

Advanced Engineering Design An Integrated Approach

The sausage sandwich game is arguably the flimsiest premise on which a radio regular has ever been based.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "premise on which", ensure the premise is clearly stated and logically connected to the subsequent argument or conclusion. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated premises.

Common error

Avoid using "premise on which" when simply indicating a topic or subject. The phrase implies a foundational assumption, not just a general area of discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "premise on which" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a clause specifying the foundation or basis for an argument, theory, or action. It connects a stated assumption to its subsequent implications, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "premise on which" serves as a cornerstone in constructing logical arguments and establishing foundational reasoning. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and very common. Primarily found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, it bridges assumptions with their implications, demanding a clear and well-defined premise to maintain coherence. When writing, ensure the premise is explicit and logically linked to your argument. While appropriate for formal writing, simpler alternatives may suit informal contexts better.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basis upon which

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the supporting foundation.

foundation on which

This alternative emphasizes the idea of a strong, underlying support.

groundwork for

This alternative focuses on the preparatory work or initial stage for something.

rationale behind

This alternative highlights the reasoning or justification for something.

underlying assumption of

This alternative emphasizes the unstated belief that supports an idea.

principle guiding

This alternative emphasizes the rule or belief that influences a decision or action.

reasoning behind

This alternative focuses on the logical thought process supporting something.

presupposition of

This alternative highlights a prior assumption or belief taken for granted.

idea underpinning

This alternative stresses the fundamental concept that supports a system or argument.

starting point for

This alternative emphasizes the initial stage or assumption from which something begins.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "premise on which" in a sentence?

Use "premise on which" to introduce a foundational assumption or belief that supports a subsequent argument or idea. For example, "The "premise on which" this policy is based is that all citizens deserve equal access to healthcare".

What are some alternatives to "premise on which"?

Consider using phrases like "basis upon which", "foundation on which", or "rationale behind" as alternatives to "premise on which", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "premise on which" and "assumption underlying"?

While similar, "premise on which" typically introduces a stated foundation, whereas "assumption underlying" highlights an unstated or implicit belief. The choice depends on whether the foundation is explicitly acknowledged or tacit.

Can I use "premise on which" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "premise on which" is generally more suited to formal or academic writing. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "reason for" or "idea behind" might be more appropriate.