tentative basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tentative basis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is provisional or subject to change, often in contexts like agreements, plans, or arrangements. Example: "We will proceed with the project on a tentative basis until we receive final approval from the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Planning for the studio-sponsored events that usually follow the Globes has proceeded, but only on the most tentative basis.

The New York Times

The new youth crime action plan provides a tentative basis for reform of the youth justice system.

The Guardian - Opinion

Overheard in a Madison Avenue elevator, one dispatch case to another: "In this instance, I am totally committed on a tentative basis".

The New Yorker

Though she had previously been told that she would be teaching four courses in the fall, officials said this was done on a tentative basis.

The New York Times

By Noel Riggs and Philip Hamburger The New Yorker, October 24, 1970 P. 41 Overheard in a Madison Avenue elevator, one dispatch case to another: "In this instance, I am totally committed on a tentative basis".

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, October 24, 1970 P. 41 Overheard in a Madison Avenue elevator, one dispatch case to another: "In this instance, I am totally committed on a tentative basis".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Dynamic 'methyl/phos' switching modules also provide a tentative molecular basis for heritable transcriptional memories.

Epigenetics and Chromatin

It is not implausible to argue that we sometimes or often act or think on the basis of tentative views, or on the explicit assumption that something is the case (which we don't know or firmly believe).

SEP

Simulations of the free radical concentration profiles using a reasonable selection of values for the rate constants provide the basis of tentative explanations and contribute to having a good control over the industrial process.

Radiation Physics and Chemistry

Newcastle disease virus infection was suggested as the tentative diagnosis on the basis of history, clinical syndrome, gross lesions, serology as well as isolation of NDV, or the presence of NDV by PCR and/or molecular characterization of the fusion protein gene.

BMC Veterinary Research

You can't create an index that government policy is going to be framed around on the basis of embryonic, tentative, incomplete works in progress.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tentative basis", ensure the surrounding context clearly indicates what conditions would make the arrangement more permanent. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "tentative basis" when you actually have a high degree of confidence. It's for situations where plans are truly subject to change, not just a formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tentative basis" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the manner or condition under which an action is taken or a situation exists. It describes that something is done provisionally or subject to change. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tentative basis" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for indicating that something is provisional or subject to change. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that it appears primarily in news and media, and science contexts, suggesting its use is appropriate when conveying uncertainty in formal communication. While not extremely common, it's a valuable phrase for accurately representing the status of plans or agreements that are not yet finalized. Remember to use it when the situation truly calls for a degree of uncertainty, avoiding its application in situations where there is a high degree of confidence in the plan.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provisional foundation

Emphasizes the temporary and conditional nature of the foundation or starting point.

preliminary footing

Highlights that the footing is established as a beginning but might change later.

experimental groundwork

Focuses on the exploratory nature of the base, implying testing and potential adjustments.

exploratory platform

Stresses that the platform serves as an initial point for exploration and further development.

interim arrangement

Suggests a temporary agreement or settlement, subject to future modifications.

conditional arrangement

Indicates that the arrangement depends on specific conditions being met.

hypothetical premise

Highlights the hypothetical nature of the premise, implying it's based on assumption.

speculative base

Emphasizes the speculative nature of the base, based on conjecture rather than firm evidence.

uncertain premise

Focuses on the uncertainty of the premise, suggesting a lack of sureness.

transient footing

Highlights that the footing is only temporary or not long lasting.

FAQs

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

You can use "tentative basis" to indicate that something is provisional and subject to change. For instance, "We are proceeding with the project on a "tentative basis" until funding is secured."

What phrases are similar to "tentative basis"?

Alternatives to "tentative basis" include "provisional basis", "temporary basis", or "preliminary basis", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "tentative basis"?

Use "tentative basis" when describing plans, agreements, or decisions that are not yet finalized and could be altered or cancelled. It's best used when there's a clear understanding that the arrangement is not permanent.

Is "tentative basis" formal or informal?

The phrase "tentative basis" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's more commonly seen in professional or news-related settings. It's a neutral phrase in terms of formality.