On the Basis of Meaning

In everyday English communication, certain phrases carry specific meanings that help structure logical arguments or explanations. One such phrase is on the basis of. This expression is widely used in formal writing, legal language, academic texts, and even casual discussions to indicate the reasoning, grounds, or foundation for a decision, belief, or conclusion. Understanding the meaning and usage of on the basis of can enhance comprehension, writing clarity, and overall communication skills.

Understanding the Phrase On the Basis of

The phrase on the basis of is typically used to explain the foundation or reason for something. It is synonymous with phrases like because of, due to, or based on. When someone says that a decision was made on the basis of certain information, they are pointing to the facts, principles, or criteria that justified that decision.

Grammatical Structure

On the basis of functions as a prepositional phrase. It is often followed by a noun or noun phrase, such as:

• On the basis of evidence
• On the basis of performance
• On the basis of merit

These expressions clarify what rationale was used to arrive at a conclusion, take an action, or form an opinion.

Examples of Usage

To understand how on the basis of is used in real-world communication, consider the following examples:

• The scholarship was awarded on the basis of academic achievement.
• He was promoted on the basis of his leadership abilities.
• We cannot make a decision on the basis of rumors.

Each of these sentences highlights a specific justification or rationale behind an action or result. This is the core of what the phrase represents a foundation or starting point for further reasoning or behavior.

Formal Contexts

On the basis of is especially common in formal contexts such as:

• Academic writing: The theory was accepted on the basis of empirical research.
• Legal decisions: The ruling was made on the basis of constitutional principles.
• Employment policies: Candidates are selected on the basis of qualifications and experience.

Using the phrase in these ways helps maintain a professional tone and demonstrates clear reasoning in communication.

Differences from Similar Phrases

While on the basis of is similar to other expressions like based on or because of, there are subtle distinctions in tone and formality. For instance:

• Based onis more common in casual or general writing: Based on the weather, we’ll cancel the picnic.
• Because ofis often more direct and emotional: She cried because of the bad news.
• On the basis ofis more formal and logical: The conclusion was drawn on the basis of statistical analysis.

Choosing the right phrase depends on the context and audience. On the basis of is ideal when the writer or speaker wants to appear precise, analytical, or professional.

Common Mistakes and Clarifications

Sometimes, learners of English misuse or overuse the phrase. Here are a few tips to ensure correct usage:

• Avoid redundancy: Do not say based on the basis of, as this is repetitive.
• Use the correct preposition: It is always on the basis of, not in the basis of or by the basis of.
• Check formality: Don’t use it when a simpler, more direct phrase fits the tone better.

Examples of Incorrect Usage

• ✘ The decision was takenin the basis ofthe report. (Incorrect)
• ✠The decision was takenon the basis ofthe report. (Correct)
• ✘ We hired himbased on the basis ofhis experience. (Incorrect and redundant)
• ✠We hired himon the basis ofhis experience. (Correct)

Alternative Expressions

If you wish to vary your language while maintaining similar meaning, consider these alternatives:

• According to
• Due to
• As a result of
• Owing to
• In light of

Each of these can be used in slightly different contexts, but they can serve as replacements when repetition is a concern or when writing in different tones or styles.

Why It Matters in Communication

Understanding and using on the basis of correctly is essential for anyone aiming to express justification, reasoning, or evidence. Whether in academic essays, workplace reports, or public speeches, this phrase adds a level of clarity and logical structure that is highly valued in effective communication.

Impact on Persuasive Writing

In argumentative writing or persuasive speech, clearly stating actions or beliefs on the basis of facts or data strengthens the argument. It shows that conclusions were not reached emotionally or arbitrarily, but through reasoned evaluation.

Usage in Everyday Life

Though it is formal, the phrase also appears in daily life, especially when explaining decisions:

• A parent might say, We chose this school on the basis of its reputation.
• A consumer might decide, I bought this phone on the basis of the reviews.
• Friends discussing a movie might say, We picked it on the basis of the trailer.

This shows how the phrase, while formal, remains relevant across different settings, bridging the gap between structured reasoning and everyday decision-making.

The phrase on the basis of holds significant meaning in English, serving as a tool to articulate reasons, justifications, and foundations for various actions or beliefs. Mastering its use enhances both written and spoken communication, especially in formal settings. By understanding its structure, applications, and distinctions from similar expressions, speakers and writers can communicate more clearly and persuasively. In professional, academic, and even everyday contexts, the ability to express something on the basis of evidence or reasoning adds depth and credibility to any message.