Phrasal verb
based on sth
Definition
phrasal verb. If something is based on an idea or fact, it uses that as its foundation or starting point.
phrasal verb. A transitive verb, 'to base sth on sth', meaning to use a fact, idea, or principle as the foundation upon which another thing is developed.
Examples
“The film is based on a true story.”
“The company's decision was based on extensive market research and customer feedback.”
“Her entire philosophical framework is based on a radical reinterpretation of Kantian ethics, challenging long-held assumptions about moral duty.”
Examples
simple
“The film is based on a true story.”
contextual
“The company's decision was based on extensive market research and customer feedback.”
complex
“Her entire philosophical framework is based on a radical reinterpretation of Kantian ethics, challenging long-held assumptions about moral duty.”
Usage
Often used in the passive voice ('is based on') to describe the origin or foundation of something.
Teaching tip
Point out the common adverbial use at the start of a sentence, e.g., 'Based on the results, we will proceed.'
Pitfall
This movie based in a true story.
This movie is based on a true story.
The correct preposition is 'on', not 'in', and the passive form 'is based' is needed here.
Phrasal verb
Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
base + object + on + object