Basis

Definition

Basis is a noun that refers to the foundation, starting point, or fundamental principle of something. It describes the underlying support or reason for a particular concept, argument, or decision.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbeɪsɪs/
• Respelling: BAY-sis

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbeɪsɪs/
• Respelling: BAY-sis

The pronunciation of "basis" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "basis" originates from the Greek word "basis," meaning "a step" or "foundation." It entered English through Latin in the 16th century, where it retained the meaning of a starting point or underlying support.

Derivatives

• Basal (adjective)
• Basify (verb)
• Basic (adjective)
• Baseline (noun)
• Basis point (noun)

Synonyms

• Foundation
• Principle
• Groundwork

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "basis" is commonly used to describe the underlying reason or support for an idea, decision, or system, such as "The basis for her argument was sound logic." It also appears in phrases like "on a daily basis" to indicate frequency.

Related Terms

• Foundation: The underlying support or principle of something.
• Premise: An initial assumption or basis for an argument.
• Fundamental: The primary or basic aspect of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The foundation or starting point of something: Refers to the core or underlying reason for a concept or idea.
  • Example: "The basis of her thesis was grounded in thorough research."
• The underlying support for an argument or action: Describes the justification or fundamental reason behind a decision or stance.
  • Example: "There was no legal basis for the decision."
• A regular frequency or schedule: Often used in expressions such as "on a daily basis" to denote how often something occurs.
  • Example: "He exercises on a weekly basis."