Basis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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basis

[ˈbeɪsɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

on a daily basis

The underlying support or foundation for something; the fundamental principles or rules that form the groundwork of a system.

Synonyms

foundation, fundamentals, groundwork, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
basis

Used when talking about the main reason or principle for something.

  • The basis of their argument was flawed.
  • She was chosen on the basis of her experience.
foundation

Often refers to the underlying support or structure for something, especially in a metaphorical sense.

  • Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship.
  • The building has a solid foundation.
groundwork

Refers to the preliminary or initial work needed to prepare for a larger task or project.

  • They laid the groundwork for the new business strategy.
  • The researchers did the groundwork before conducting the main study.
support

Refers to help or assistance provided to sustain or uphold something.

  • She needed emotional support after the loss.
  • The project was successful thanks to the community support.
fundamentals

Used to describe the basic and essential principles or elements of something.

  • You need to learn the fundamentals of mathematics.
  • The fundamentals of good cooking include fresh ingredients.

Examples of usage

  • We meet on a daily basis to discuss our progress.
  • She considered trust to be the basis of any strong relationship.
Context #2 | Noun

legal basis

The justification or reasoning upon which a decision or action is based, especially in a legal context.

Synonyms

cause, ground, justification, reasoning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
basis

Used to describe the fundamental principle or underlying support for a concept, idea, or operation. Often implies a foundational role.

  • The basis of the agreement was mutual respect
  • Science provides a solid basis for technological advancements
justification

Used when providing a reason or explanation that defends or supports an action, decision, or belief. It often involves defending a choice against criticism.

  • He struggled to find a justification for his behavior
  • Justification for the new policy was weak
reasoning

Related to the process of thinking about something in a logical way in order to form a conclusion or judgment. This involves using logic and rational thinking.

  • Her reasoning was flawed on several points
  • The reasoning behind the decision was sound
ground

Often used to refer to a reason or justification that provides a firm base. It can also refer to something that gives a valid reason for something else happening.

  • There is no ground for such allegations
  • She was dismissed on the grounds of misconduct
cause

Applied when talking about something that brings about an effect or a result. It is often used in discussions about reasons for events, actions, or phenomena.

  • The cause of the accident is still unknown
  • Poverty is a major cause of crime

Examples of usage

  • The court ruled in favor of the plaintiff on the basis of the evidence presented.
  • She was denied entry to the country on the basis of her criminal record.
Context #3 | Noun

scientific basis

The factual or theoretical framework upon which scientific research or experiments are conducted.

Synonyms

framework, grounding, rationale, underpinning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
basis

Used to describe the foundation or the primary reason for something.

  • The basis for his argument is strong evidence.
  • On a daily basis, she checks her emails.
framework

Refers to a structured plan or set of rules that support something, often used in technical or systemic contexts.

  • The new policy framework will guide our operations.
  • This software framework makes it easy to develop applications.
grounding

Used when referring to the basic knowledge, background, or foundation in a particular subject or skill.

  • She has a strong grounding in mathematics.
  • It is essential to have a grounding in grammar for learning any language.
rationale

Describes the set of reasons or logical basis for a course of action or belief.

  • The rationale behind his decision was clearly explained.
  • What's the rationale for the new rule?
underpinning

Refers to the fundamental support, foundation, or basis upon which something is built or established, often used in a physical or structural sense.

  • The underpinning of the old building needs reinforcement.
  • The underpinning of this theory is solid data.

Examples of usage

  • The experiment was rejected due to a lack of scientific basis.
  • His theory lacked a solid scientific basis.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'basis'

The word 'basis' originated from the Latin word 'basis', which means 'foundation' or 'base'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century. The concept of a basis has been integral to various fields such as mathematics, science, and law, where it serves as a fundamental element for reasoning and decision-making.


See also: abase, base, baseball, based, baseless, baselessly, basement, basic, basin, debase, debased, debasement.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #364, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.