to be based on

USAGE SUMMARY

"to be based on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is derived from a particular source. For example, "This recipe was based on one from a famous chef's cookbook."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It just has to be based on an old one.

Vice

It has to be based on belief.

Independent

Politics has to be based on policy.

The New York Times - Books

Conservation has to be based on science".

The New York Times - Science

Which answers seem to be based on opinion and which seem to be based on facts?

The New York Times

It's got to be based on something".

The New York Times

The nurses want pay to be based on seniority.

The New York Times

DANIEL OKRENT All opinions purport to be based on facts.

The New York Times

I think it ought to be based on merit".

The New York Times

"But they have to be based on science.

The New Yorker

"Such decisions need to be based on sound science.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be based on", clearly state the foundation or source upon which something relies. This provides clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "to be based on" without specifying what it is based on. Ambiguity can weaken your statement. Always provide the necessary context for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be based on" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject is derived from or relies upon something else. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

7%

Unknown

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be based on" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate derivation, foundation, or dependence. As Ludwig AI confirms, its widespread use across various reputable sources makes it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication. Whether you're writing a news article, scientific paper, or business report, using "to be based on" correctly helps establish the basis for your claims and arguments. Remember to clearly specify what something is based on to avoid ambiguity, and consider alternatives like "to rely upon" or "to stem from" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to depend on

This indicates a conditional relationship where one thing is contingent upon another.

to derive from

This alternative indicates how something is obtained or developed from a source.

to rely upon

This alternative emphasizes dependence on something as a foundation or support.

to be grounded in

This suggests a firm foundation of knowledge, principles, or facts.

to rest upon

This emphasizes the supporting role of something, indicating reliance.

to be predicated on

This phrase suggests a logical foundation or assumption that something else depends on.

to be rooted in

This highlights deep connection or historical origin.

to stem from

This indicates origin or source, implying a cause-and-effect relationship.

to originate in

This emphasizes the place or time where something began or was created.

to hinge on

This conveys that the outcome or success depends critically on something.

FAQs

How can I use "to be based on" in a sentence?

Use "to be based on" to indicate that something is derived from or founded on a particular source, like "The movie is "loosely based on" a true story".

What are some alternatives to "to be based on"?

You can use alternatives such as "to rely upon", "to be predicated on", or "to stem from" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say 'is based off of' instead of "to be based on"?

While "based off of" is sometimes used informally, "to be based on" is generally considered more grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing. "To derive from" is also a good substitute in some contexts.

What is the difference between "to be based on" and "to be inspired by"?

"To be based on" implies a direct derivation or foundation, whereas "to be inspired by" suggests that something served as a creative influence but not necessarily a direct source.