was based on

USAGE SUMMARY

'was based on' is a perfectly acceptable piece of phrasing in written English.
It typically indicates that one thing was inspired by, or depended upon, something else. For example, "Her decision to move abroad was based on her desire for a new start."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was based on confusion.

The New Yorker

"Everything was based on false data".

The New York Times

That assessment was based on several considerations.

The Economist

It was based on something true.

The New Yorker

Their constitution was based on three principles.

The New Yorker

Say the law was based on whim.

The New Yorker

The figure was based on unofficial tallies.

The New York Times

My hesitation was based on practical considerations.

The New Yorker

The system was based on Mobileye technology.

The New York Times - Science

"It was based on the novel.

The New York Times

The formula was based on volatility.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was based on", ensure that the relationship between the subject and the foundation is clear and logical. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the exact source or reason for the foundation.

Common error

Avoid using "was based on" without clearly specifying what the subject is based on. For instance, instead of saying "The decision was based on something", specify "The decision was based on market research" to provide clarity and context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was based on" functions as a linking phrase to establish a relationship of dependence or origin between two elements. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, showing its widespread use in linking a subject with its foundation or source. This structure is commonly employed to provide context or justification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

32%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was based on" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that something is derived from, inspired by, or dependent upon something else. Ludwig AI validates its frequent appearance across diverse sources, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki. It functions primarily to explain the foundation or rationale behind a subject, making it a versatile tool for clarifying relationships and providing context. To ensure clarity in writing, specify the exact source when using "was based on". Alternatives such as "stemmed from" or "originated from" can be used depending on the nuance you intend to convey. Overall, mastering the use of "was based on" enhances the precision and clarity of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was derived from

This indicates that something was obtained or developed from a source.

had its basis in

This phrase highlights the underlying foundation or reason for something.

originated from

This emphasizes the beginning or starting point of something.

was built upon

This implies a gradual development or construction based on a foundation.

stemmed from

This alternative suggests an origin or development from a particular source.

was informed by

This indicates that something was influenced or shaped by particular ideas or principles.

was grounded in

This indicates a firm foundation or basis in something.

rested upon

This implies that something relies heavily on a particular foundation or principle.

was predicated on

This suggests that something is based on a specific condition or assumption.

was modeled after

This suggests that something was created following the example or design of something else.

FAQs

How can I use "was based on" in a sentence?

Use "was based on" to indicate that something is derived from, inspired by, or relies on something else. For example, "The movie "was based on a true story"" or "Her argument "was based on empirical evidence"".

What are some alternatives to "was based on"?

Alternatives include "stemmed from", "originated from", "was derived from", or "rested upon", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "was based off of" instead of "was based on"?

While some might use "based off of" informally, "was based on" is generally considered more grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing. "Based off" is sometimes considered colloquial.

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

"Was based on" implies a more direct and foundational relationship, whereas "was influenced by" suggests a more indirect effect or shaping of something. For example, a law was based on a constitution, while an artist was influenced by a particular movement.