the basic premise is that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the basic premise is that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a specific hypothesis or idea that will be explored further in the text. For example: "The basic premise is that the human brain is capable of remarkable achievements when put to the test."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The basic premise is that robots called Cylons – originally created by humans, now very much their own people – turn up after 40 years in the wilderness to nuke humanity.

The Guardian

The basic premise is that light entering through a tiny hole can display inverted pictures of the outside world in a darkened room.

Vice

The basic premise is that, as long as you're over 18 – police may ask to see ID – you can work as a sex worker without fear of arrest.

Vice

Future projections depend on multiple assumptions, but the basic premise is that past trends, affecting as they do the risk of death from cancer in specific generations and/or time periods, will be carried forward into the future.

British Journal of Cancer

Future predictions depend on multiple assumptions, but the basic premise is that past trends, affecting as they do the risk of cancer in specific generations and/or time periods, will be carried forward into the future.

British Journal of Cancer

The basic premise is that what you eat affects you profoundly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The basic premise is that I became a writer through failing to become a rock star.

The Guardian - Travel

The basic premise is that one day 2% of the world's population suddenly disappear without trace.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The basic premise is that the human mind is a crappy computer – full of bugs, but capable of reprogramming.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The basic premise is that we typically view the world through a screen of assumptions, some so basic they're invisible.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Here the basic premise was that somehow, a sufficient energy supply would be available.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a complex idea, use "the basic premise is that" to clearly signal the foundational assumption upon which your argument rests.

Common error

Avoid using "the basic premise is that" for self-evident statements. Opt for simpler phrasing like "simply put" or omit the introductory phrase entirely for brevity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the basic premise is that" serves as a discourse marker, introducing a foundational assumption or core idea upon which an argument, theory, or concept is built. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to clearly introduce a specific hypothesis or idea.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the basic premise is that" is a versatile phrase employed to introduce fundamental assumptions or core ideas. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is indeed correct and usable in written English. Its frequent appearance in both news and scientific articles underscores its utility in conveying foundational concepts across diverse fields. While highly useful, it's important to use it judiciously and avoid redundancy in simpler contexts, ensuring clarity and conciseness in your writing. Consider alternatives like "the core idea is" or "the fundamental assumption is" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the fundamental assumption is that

Replaces 'premise' with 'assumption', emphasizing the foundational nature of the idea.

the core idea is that

Replaces 'premise' with 'idea', simplifying the language and focusing on the central concept.

the main concept is that

Emphasizes the 'main' aspect of the idea, making it a bit more direct.

the central tenet is that

Uses 'tenet' to suggest a principle or belief, adding a slightly more formal tone.

the underlying principle is that

Highlights the foundational nature of the idea, indicating it supports further reasoning.

the key argument is that

Shifts focus to a 'key argument', implying a persuasive context.

essentially, it means that

Simplifies the phrase, offering a less formal alternative focusing on the essence of the matter.

at its heart, it suggests that

Uses a more figurative expression to introduce the central idea, adding a touch of nuance.

in essence, it posits that

Replaces 'basic premise' with 'essence' and 'posits', making the statement more concise and formal.

the starting point is that

Emphasizes the initial nature of the statement, as a foundation for what follows.

FAQs

How can I use "the basic premise is that" in a sentence?

Use "the basic premise is that" to introduce a fundamental assumption or core idea that underlies an argument, theory, or concept. For example, "The basic premise is that early intervention can significantly improve a child's developmental outcomes."

What are some alternatives to "the basic premise is that"?

You can use alternatives such as "the fundamental assumption is that", "the core idea is that", or "the underlying principle is that depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "the basic premise is that"?

While not strictly redundant, "the basic premise is that" can sometimes be replaced with a simpler phrase for brevity. Consider whether "the core idea is" or "the main point is" might be more concise and effective.

How formal is the phrase "the basic premise is that"?

"The basic premise is that" has a neutral to slightly formal register, making it suitable for academic writing, professional communication, and news reporting. It is less appropriate for informal conversations or very casual writing.