basis

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").

“Basis” is pronounced BAY-sihs (/ˈbeɪ.sɪs/ in IPA).

Here is “basis” used in a sentence: “His claim has no basis in fact.”

“Basis” is a noun.

The word “basis” comes from Latin. From Latin basis, from Greek basis, "step" or "foundation" — a doublet of base.

“Basis” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Basis” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the foundation or starting point for an argument, theory, or decision.

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.

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.

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.