The phrase ‘on the basis of’ is commonly used in English to indicate the reason, cause, or foundation for something. It plays an important role in both spoken and written communication by showing how decisions, opinions, or conclusions are formed. Knowing the synonyms of ‘on the basis of’ not only enriches vocabulary but also helps express ideas more precisely and diversely. This topic explores the meaning of ‘on the basis of,’ its usage, and various synonyms with examples to improve understanding and communication skills.
Understanding the Meaning of ‘On the Basis of’
‘On the basis of’ means ‘because of,’ ‘due to,’ or ‘according to.’ It connects a cause, reason, or justification with an action or decision. For example, when we say, ‘She was selected on the basis of her qualifications,’ it means her qualifications were the reason for her selection.
This phrase is frequently used in formal writing, academic texts, legal documents, and everyday speech to clearly explain the foundation of an action or belief. It helps provide clarity and structure to sentences by explicitly linking cause and effect.
Common Uses of ‘On the Basis of’
- Explaining reasons for decisions or judgments
- Describing criteria for selection or evaluation
- Showing the foundation for beliefs or opinions
- Connecting evidence or data to conclusions
Synonyms of ‘On the Basis of’
To avoid repetition and add variety to writing or speaking, it is useful to know several alternatives to ‘on the basis of.’ These synonyms share similar meanings but may vary slightly depending on context. Here are some commonly used synonyms:
- Based on
- According to
- By virtue of
- Due to
- Owing to
- In light of
- On account of
- Considering
- As a result of
- In view of
How These Synonyms Differ Slightly
While these synonyms are often interchangeable with ‘on the basis of,’ subtle differences exist:
- Based on: Very direct and common; used widely in both formal and informal contexts.
- According to: Often used when referring to rules, opinions, or sources of information.
- By virtue of: More formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
- Due to / Owing to: Primarily indicate cause or reason and often replace ‘because of.’
- In light of / In view of: Suggest consideration of new information or circumstances.
- On account of: Slightly formal, mostly used to explain reasons.
- Considering: Implies taking something into account before making a decision.
- As a result of: Focuses more on consequences rather than reasons.
Examples Using ‘On the Basis of’ and Its Synonyms
Seeing these phrases in sentences helps clarify how and when to use them:
- She was hiredon the basis ofher extensive experience in marketing.
- The judge made the rulingbased onthe evidence presented in court.
- According tothe report, the project will be completed ahead of schedule.
- He was promotedby virtue ofhis outstanding performance.
- The event was canceleddue tobad weather conditions.
- Owing tofinancial difficulties, the company had to downsize.
- In light ofrecent discoveries, the theory was revised.
- The meeting was postponedon account ofthe CEO’s absence.
- Consideringall the facts, the committee reached a unanimous decision.
- As a result ofthe new policy, customer satisfaction improved significantly.
- In view ofthe circumstances, we decided to extend the deadline.
When to Choose Which Synonym
The choice of synonym depends on tone, formality, and exact meaning you want to convey:
- For informal and general use,based onis simple and clear.
- In academic or legal writing,by virtue oforin view ofmay be more appropriate.
- To express cause and effect clearly,due to,owing to, oras a result ofwork well.
- When citing sources or opinions,according tofits naturally.
- If emphasizing consideration,consideringorin light ofconvey thoughtful reflection.
Why Using Synonyms Matters
Using synonyms for ‘on the basis of’ improves the quality of writing and communication by avoiding repetition and adding nuance. It makes sentences more engaging and allows the speaker or writer to express subtle differences in meaning. Moreover, it demonstrates a good command of language, which is important in professional, academic, and creative settings.
Benefits of Variety in Language
- Enhances clarity by choosing the most precise phrase.
- Keeps readers or listeners interested by avoiding monotony.
- Shows a deeper understanding of language and context.
- Improves persuasive writing by matching tone to purpose.
- Helps in language learning by expanding vocabulary.
Tips for Learning and Using These Synonyms
To master the use of ‘on the basis of’ and its synonyms, consider these practical tips:
- Read widely in different genres to see how these phrases are used.
- Practice writing sentences using different synonyms to build confidence.
- Listen to formal speeches or academic talks to hear the natural use of these expressions.
- Use a thesaurus or vocabulary apps to explore related words and meanings.
- Pay attention to tone and audience to choose the most suitable synonym.
The phrase ‘on the basis of’ plays a vital role in connecting reasons and actions in English. Its many synonyms provide flexibility and precision in expressing ideas. Whether you choose ‘based on,’ ‘according to,’ ‘due to,’ or any other synonym, understanding their subtle differences helps communicate more effectively. Expanding your vocabulary with these alternatives not only improves your language skills but also enriches your writing and speaking, making your communication clearer and more engaging.