on the basis of
Part of speech: Prepositional phrase (often used as a complex preposition).
Meaning
The phrase “on the basis of” means according to, because of, or in accordance with something. It indicates that a decision, action, or judgment is founded on specific information, evidence, or criteria. It is commonly used in formal, legal, academic, or professional contexts to emphasize reliance on facts rather than opinion.
Pronunciation
In American English: /ɑn ðə ˈbeɪsɪs əv/ (stress on the first syllable of “basis”).
In British English: /ɒn ðə ˈbeɪsɪs ɒv/ (similar stress pattern).
The phrase is spoken fluidly in conversation, with “the” often reduced to /ðə/.
Morphology
This is a fixed prepositional phrase composed of the preposition “on,” the definite article “the,” the noun “basis” (from Latin basis, meaning foundation or base), and the preposition “of.” It functions as a single unit and does not inflect for tense, number, or gender. “Basis” is the root word, derived from Greek via Latin, implying a foundational support.
Grammar Notes
“On the basis of” is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase (e.g., “evidence,” “facts”). It can introduce a reason or justification in clauses. Unlike simple prepositions, it often appears in written or formal speech and can be disjunctive, meaning it connects ideas while implying separation (e.g., “not on the basis of age, but merit”). Avoid using it in casual talk; opt for “based on” instead.
Short Interesting Facts
The phrase gained prominence in 20th-century English through legal and bureaucratic language, influenced by precise wording in contracts and policies. “Basis” originally referred to the base of a column in architecture, evolving to mean any underlying principle. It’s frequently used in international English, making it essential for non-native speakers in business or law.
Tips on How to Learn It Easier
Associate it with “based on” as a near-synonym—think of it as “standing on the base of” something solid. Practice by replacing “because” in sentences with this phrase to add formality. Use flashcards linking it to real-life scenarios, like policy decisions, and repeat aloud to master the rhythm.
Cultural or Contextual Features
In English-speaking cultures, especially in the US and UK, this phrase underscores fairness and objectivity, often in legal systems (e.g., “equal opportunity on the basis of merit”). It’s common in HR policies, scientific reports, and journalism to avoid bias accusations. In multicultural settings, it promotes transparency, as seen in UN documents or EU regulations.
Examples
- Simple: We hired her on the basis of her skills.
- Medium: The court ruled in his favor on the basis of new evidence from witnesses.
- Complex: On the basis of extensive market research, which revealed shifting consumer preferences toward sustainable products, the company decided to overhaul its production process, despite initial cost concerns.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Common Word Combinations
Synonyms: based on, according to, due to, in accordance with, owing to.
Antonyms: against (as in “against the basis of”), independently of (less direct opposites).
Common combinations: on the basis of evidence, facts, price, merit, research, age, or performance. Examples: “on the basis of reliable data,” “on the basis of personal experience.”
Mini-Tasks for the Student
- Make a sentence: Create your own simple sentence using “on the basis of” to describe a decision you made today.
- Find a synonym: Replace “on the basis of” in the medium example above with a synonym and rewrite the sentence.
- Spot the context: Read a news article and identify one instance where “on the basis of” (or a similar phrase) could fit; explain why.