sound basis

USAGE SUMMARY

"sound basis" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means a solid or reliable foundation or starting point for something. Here are some examples of how to use it in a sentence: - The research was conducted on a sound basis of previous studies and expert opinions. - In order to make a good decision, you need to have a sound basis of information and data. - Her argument lacked a sound basis and was ultimately dismissed by the judge. - Our company's success is built on a sound basis of ethical business practices. - Taking care of your physical and mental health is a necessary aspect of maintaining a sound basis for happiness in life.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But gambling is not a sound basis for policymaking.

The New York Times

Discounting inconvenient facts is not a sound basis for policymaking.

The Guardian

But nostalgia is seldom a sound basis for policy.

The Economist

This is hardly a sound basis for a sustainable recovery.

The Economist

"Stigma and exclusion are not a sound basis for immigration policy," Ms. Tiven said.

The New York Times

It is important that we understand the recovery process on a scientifically sound basis".

The Guardian

But does the "right to be forgotten" really have a sound basis?

The Guardian - Opinion

Photographs shared on social media are not a sound basis for making foreign policy, of course.

The New Yorker

But wishful thinking about North Korea's intentions is not a sound basis for policy making.

The New York Times

Unfortunately for Trump, there's no sound basis for this claim of presidential immunity.

The Washington Post

To put Social Security on a sound basis indefinitely, significantly larger sums are needed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sound basis" to indicate a reliable and well-supported foundation for an argument, decision, or action. Ensure the context clearly establishes what the basis supports.

Common error

While "sound basis" is widely applicable, be mindful of the context. In very informal settings, consider simpler alternatives like "good reason" or "solid ground" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sound basis" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition (e.g., "on a sound basis") or as a complement within a clause. It signifies the existence of a reliable and justifiable foundation or rationale for something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sound basis" is a noun phrase that signifies a reliable and justifiable foundation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is grammatically correct and very common, especially in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. It's important to use the phrase when you want to establish credibility and trustworthiness by showing that something is well-supported and reasoned. While versatile, remember that simpler alternatives may be more suitable for informal conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solid foundation

Replaces "basis" with "foundation", emphasizing the structural integrity of the base.

firm grounding

Uses "grounding" to suggest a secure and well-established base.

reliable rationale

Substitutes "basis" with "rationale", focusing on the logical justification.

valid justification

Emphasizes the legitimacy and acceptability of the reason or support.

strong justification

Emphasizes that the justification is sturdy and compelling.

reasonable grounds

Replaces "basis" with "grounds", highlighting the logical reasons or evidence.

legitimate reason

Focuses on the permissibility and lawfulness of cause or motive.

cogent argument

Highlights the persuasiveness and clarity of the supporting reason.

well-founded reason

Suggests that the reason is based on good evidence or logic.

tenable premise

Emphasizes that the underlying assumption is defensible and reasonable.

FAQs

How can I use "sound basis" in a sentence?

You can use "sound basis" to indicate a reliable foundation for an argument, decision, or belief. For example: "The research provided a "sound basis" for the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "sound basis"?

Alternatives include "solid foundation", "firm grounding", or "reliable rationale", depending on the specific context.

Is "sound basis" the same as "good reason"?

While similar, "sound basis" implies a more structured and reasoned foundation, often used in formal or academic contexts. "Good reason" is more general and can apply to informal situations.

Which is correct: "a sound basis" or "an sound basis"?

The correct usage is "a sound basis" because "sound" begins with a consonant sound.