basis
BAY-sihs
Basis (noun) means the foundation or starting point for an argument, theory, or decision. Example: “Judges must decide cases on the basis of evidence, not rumour.”
noun
1
The foundation or starting point for an argument, theory, or decision.
"Judges must decide cases on the basis of evidence, not rumour."
"His claim has no basis in fact."
"The report forms the basis of our new strategy."
2
A regular pattern or frequency with which something is done.
"She goes swimming on a daily basis to stay fit."
"The staff are paid on a monthly basis, usually at the end."
"We meet on a weekly basis."
How to use basis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe reason or foundation behind something, or the frequency with which it happens (e.g. "on a daily basis").
Common pairings
on a regular basis
basis for
legal basis
no basis
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Word forms
- Plural
- bases, baseis, basises
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Judges must decide cases on the _____ of evidence, not rumour.
Etymology
From Latin basis, from Greek basis, "step" or "foundation" — a doublet of base.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for basis
See all rhymes for basis →Frequently asked questions
What does “basis” mean?
The word “basis” means the foundation or starting point for an argument, theory, or decision. In plain terms, the reason or foundation behind something, or the frequency with which it happens (e.g. "on a daily basis").
How do you pronounce “basis”?
“Basis” is pronounced BAY-sihs (/ˈbeɪ.sɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “basis” in a sentence?
Here is “basis” used in a sentence: “His claim has no basis in fact.”
What part of speech is “basis”?
“Basis” is a noun.
Where does the word “basis” come from?
The word “basis” comes from Latin. From Latin basis, from Greek basis, "step" or "foundation" — a doublet of base.
Is “basis” a common word?
“Basis” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “basis” have?
“Basis” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the foundation or starting point for an argument, theory, or decision.
What is the difference between 'basis' and 'base'?
A base is usually a physical foundation — the bottom of a statue or a military base. A basis is abstract: the underlying reason or starting point for an idea, argument, or decision, as in 'the basis of his theory.' Base tends to be literal; basis tends to be figurative.
What does 'on a regular basis' mean?
It is a common idiom meaning 'regularly' or 'in a regular way.' Here basis describes the manner or pattern in which something happens. You might exercise on a regular basis, or meet on a weekly basis. The phrase simply spells out how often or on what footing an action occurs.
What is the plural of 'basis'?
The plural of basis is 'bases,' following its Greek origin rather than adding a simple -s. Note that 'bases' is also the plural of 'base,' so the two look identical in the plural. Context tells them apart — 'on several bases' from basis means on several grounds or reasons.
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