provide a basis for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'provide a basis for' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that forms the foundation or starting point for something else. For example: The research conducted by the team provides a basis for further exploration of the topic.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Klepper pointed to a Maryland defamation statute that might provide a basis for Melania Trump's suit.

The Guardian

These transfers may provide a basis for sanctions pursuant to U.S. legal authorities.

The Guardian

Still, Mr. Kwasniewski's strong words will provide a basis for further dialogue and reconciliation.

The New York Times

The assessments merely provide a basis for distributing them across the population to which they apply.

The New York Times

Such twists are not meant to provide a basis for changing behavior.

The New Yorker

By pinpointing what goes wrong, their finding may provide a basis for devising new treatments.

The New York Times - Science

Congress had to specifically provide a basis for suing under the law, the brief said.

The New York Times

"But even the First Amendment would not provide a basis for acquitting these defendants".

The New York Times

The studies provide a basis for selecting the washing equipment and preparation-plant circuitry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That discovery might provide a basis for strong ties going forward.

The New York Times

And I suspect that'll provide a basis for other actions across some of the other economies".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide a basis for", ensure the connection between the basis and the subsequent action or conclusion is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify what exactly is being based upon the information provided.

Common error

Avoid stacking multiple instances of "provide a basis for" in one sentence. This can lead to convoluted and difficult-to-read prose. Instead, break down complex ideas into simpler sentences or use synonyms like "establishes", "founds", or "justifies".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide a basis for" functions as a transitive verb phrase. It indicates the action of supplying a foundation or justification, enabling something else to develop or occur. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

57%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "provide a basis for" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something serves as a foundation or rationale for something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English. It is most frequently found in scientific and news-related contexts, suggesting a formal or semi-formal tone. While "provide a basis for" is generally safe to use, be mindful of overusing it in complex sentences. Alternatives such as "furnish a foundation for" or "lay the groundwork for" can enhance clarity and readability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

furnish a foundation for

Replaces "basis" with "foundation", emphasizing the supportive role the phrase plays.

offer a rationale for

Substitutes "provide a basis" with "offer a rationale", focusing on offering reasons or justification.

lay the groundwork for

This phrase highlights the preparatory aspect, suggesting actions taken to set up future developments.

establish a precedent for

Implies setting an example or standard that will influence future actions or decisions.

form the justification for

Emphasizes the act of justifying or giving reasons, instead of just providing a base.

create a springboard for

Suggests that the phrase serves as a starting point from which further progress can be made.

constitute the grounds for

Indicates that something forms the legal or logical reasons behind an action or belief.

build a platform for

Focuses on creating a structure or opportunity for further development or action.

present an argument for

Highlights the act of making a case or presenting a persuasive reason.

grant an opening for

Emphasizes providing an initial opportunity or starting point.

FAQs

How can I use "provide a basis for" in a sentence?

Use "provide a basis for" to indicate that something serves as the foundation or justification for something else. For example, "This research may "provide a basis for" new treatments."

What are some alternatives to "provide a basis for"?

You can use alternatives such as "furnish a foundation for", "offer a rationale for", or "lay the groundwork for" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "provide a basis for" or "be the basis for"?

While both are correct, ""provide a basis for"" emphasizes the act of establishing the foundation, while "be the basis for" simply states the relationship. The best choice depends on the intended emphasis.

What is the difference between "provide a basis for" and "provide a reason for"?

"Provide a basis for" suggests a foundational element that supports further development or action, whereas "provide a reason for" simply gives an explanation or justification for something. The former implies a deeper, more structural support.