that was based on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that was based on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is derived from or influenced by another source, idea, or work. Example: "The movie was a huge success, but it was clear that it was based on a popular novel."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Greene recalled one bit that was based on "Star Wars".

The New Yorker

"It's a country that was based on immigration.

The Guardian

"Obama gave us radical Obamacare that was based on Romneycare.

The New York Times

I did a project in Grad School that was based on historical memory.

Harvard University

I started making conceptual art that was based on my research in copyright law.

University of California, Berkeley

So we created a collection that was based on the silhouette of an atomic bomb.

The New York Times - Magazine

I listened to any music that was based on traditional ideas.

The New York Times - Arts

This is the dance that was based on Harris's finding the corpse in the Schuylkill.

The New Yorker

If it did mention enemy fire, he said, that was based on Mr. Kerry's false reports.

The New York Times

He falls from a self-built pedestal that was based on more than battlefield heroics.

The Washington Post

Except... that was based on secondhand reports that were admittedly speculating and drawing inferences.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that was based on", ensure the connection between the subject and the foundation is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify exactly what the idea, concept, or work is derived from.

Common error

Avoid using "that was based on" without a clear antecedent. Ensure "that" has a clearly identified referent in the preceding sentence or clause, otherwise the connection will not be understood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that was based on" functions as a linking phrase, specifically as part of a passive construction. It connects a subject to its foundation or source, indicating derivation or influence. As Ludwig AI confirm, this phrase is grammatical and suitable for a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

28%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that was based on" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something is derived from or influenced by another source. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable in various contexts. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources, and it serves to explain the foundation or origin of a particular subject. When writing, ensure that the connection between the subject and its basis is clear to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "that stemmed from" or "that derived from", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that was built upon

Suggests a gradual construction or expansion on a pre-existing foundation.

that derived from

Highlights the extraction or obtaining of something from a source.

that was grounded in

Highlights a strong, fundamental basis or principle.

that was informed by

Highlights the influence of knowledge or insight on something.

that stemmed from

Emphasizes the origin or starting point of something.

that was rooted in

Implies a deep connection or historical origin.

that originated from

Focuses on the place or manner in which something began.

that was modeled after

Suggests imitation or replication of an existing design or concept.

that drew upon

Suggests using something as a resource or inspiration.

that was predicated on

Indicates that something is affirmed or based on stated assumptions.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "that was based on"?

You can use alternatives like "that stemmed from", "that derived from", or "that originated from depending on the specific context".

How do I use "that was based on" in a sentence?

Use "that was based on" to show that something is developed or influenced by something else. For instance, "The movie that was based on the novel became a box office hit".

What's the difference between "that was based on" and "that was inspired by"?

"That was based on" implies a more direct derivation or foundation, while "that was inspired by" suggests a less literal influence or creative spark.

Is it formal to use "that was based on"?

The phrase "that was based on" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, its use depends on the overall tone and style of your writing. In highly formal writing, consider alternatives like "that was predicated on".