basis

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   The reason or main idea that something rests on, from which it grows or is judged.

   Grammar: Usually singular with a: a basis for, the basis of.

   Patterns

   • the basis for something
   • the basis of something
   • on the basis of something

   Trust is the basis of a good friendship.

   There is no factual basis for these rumors.

   The judge made her decision on the basis of the evidence.

2. 2nouncountable

   The way in which something is done or organized, especially how often or under what terms.

   Grammar: Almost always follows an adjective and takes a: on a daily basis.

   Patterns

   • on a regular basis
   • on a voluntary basis
   • on a first-come basis

   The team meets on a weekly basis.

   She works for the charity on a voluntary basis.

   Seats are given on a first-come, first-served basis.

3. 3nouncountable

   A starting point or main ingredient from which something more developed is made.

   Grammar: Used with of or for: the basis of a sauce.

   Patterns

   • the basis of something

   Tomatoes form the basis of this sauce.

   His sketch became the basis for the final design.

   The old report served as a basis for the new policy.

Word forms

Common combinations

on a regular basis

He visits his grandmother on a regular basis.

on the basis of

Candidates were chosen on the basis of merit.

firm basis

The study provides a firm basis for further research.

no basis in fact

The claim has no basis in fact.

form the basis of

These principles form the basis of the law.

on a daily basis

The staff clean the machines on a daily basis.

Synonyms and how they differ

foundation

Foundation sounds more solid and physical, while basis is often an abstract reason or principle.

grounds

Grounds is used for reasons that justify an action, as in grounds for appeal, and is always plural.

premise

A premise is a statement assumed true in an argument, which is narrower than basis.

footing

Footing refers to the position or terms of a relationship, such as being on an equal footing.

Word family

base noun

the lowest part or foundation of something

base verb

to build or found something on something else

basic adjective

forming the simplest or most essential level

basically adverb

in the most important respects

baseless adjective

having no good reason or support

Commonly confused: basis or bases?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “basis”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words