ENGLISH
REFERENCE

based on sth

phr. v..
A2 Elementary Oxford

phr. v.. If something is based on an idea or fact, it uses that as its foundation or starting point.

phr. v.. 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.


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.

Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
base + object + on + object
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.

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