Bases Or Basis: Proper Usage Explained

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Written By Sara

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When it comes to language, we often mix up words that sound similar or share similar meanings. One such pair is “bases” and “basis.” While these two words may seem interchangeable at times, they are distinct in their use and meaning. 

Knowing when to use “bases” or “basis” is important for clear and effective communication. This article will explain the proper usage of bases and basis, providing examples and tips to help you avoid confusion.

What Are Bases and Basis?

Understanding bases and basis begins with their definitions. Bases is the plural form of “base.” It refers to multiple foundations or starting points for something. For example, we can talk about military bases or the bases in a sports game, such as baseball. 

On the other hand, basis is singular and refers to a principle, reason, or underlying foundation of something. For example, a decision could be made on the basis of strong evidence.

Definitions and Pronunciation

Both words have similar meanings, but they are used in different contexts. Bases refers to more than one base, which can be a physical location like a military base or a conceptual starting point. Basis, however, refers to a singular foundation, often abstract in nature, such as the basis for a legal decision or a scientific theory.

Pronunciation also differs slightly. While both words sound similar, “bases” is pronounced with a long “e” sound, as in “faces,” while “basis” has a soft “i” sound, like “kiss.”

Parts of Speech and Context

Both bases and basis are nouns. However, they are used differently depending on whether you’re talking about something in the singular or plural form. When discussing physical or abstract foundations in a plural form, bases is appropriate. 

If you’re referring to a singular concept, reason, or starting point, you should use basis. For instance, “The bases of the argument were weak,” versus “The basis of his argument was flawed.”

Key Differences Between Bases and Basis

The key difference between bases and basis lies in their number and application. Bases is used for more than one base, whether in a physical, scientific, or conceptual sense. Basis, however, refers to a singular foundation for something. This distinction is crucial in both legal contexts and scientific contexts, where understanding whether you’re referring to one or more foundations can change the meaning of a statement.

Meaning and Usage

Bases is often used when talking about physical foundations or locations. For example, a military base or the bases in a baseball game. It can also be used in scientific fields, such as when discussing chemical bases. On the other hand, basis refers to the underlying reason or rationale for a decision or argument. For example, “The judge’s decision was made on the basis of legal reasoning.”

In everyday language, we use basis when discussing principles or reasons for actions, such as the basis for a company’s business strategy. Bases, meanwhile, often shows up in physical and abstract references, like numerical bases in computer science or scientific bases in research.

Common Phrases and Examples

In common phrases, bases often appears in physical contexts. Phrases like “on the bases of the report” or “military bases” are common. Basis is seen in phrases like “on the basis of evidence,” or “the basis for his alibi.” The difference between these two words is clear when considering their usage in phrases like “on the basis of a decision” versus “at the bases of the equation.”

Contextual Applications

The distinction between bases and basis is crucial when you are trying to be precise. For example, in a legal context, you may hear about the basis of a lawsuit or the basis of an acquittal. These phrases refer to the reasoning or principles behind the legal decision. However, when talking about military bases or chemical bases, you are referring to multiple physical locations or elements.

Bases vs Basis in Everyday Language

In everyday language, bases and basis are used in different ways. Bases typically appears in references to multiple foundations or starting points. In contrast, basis is used when referring to a singular foundation or reason for something. Understanding this difference can make your communication clearer and more effective.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Here is a simple table to illustrate the difference between bases and basis:

TermSingular/PluralCommon ContextsExample Phrase
BasesPluralPhysical locations, sports, chemical compounds“The bases of the argument were laid out.”
BasisSingularReasoning, foundations, principles“The basis for his decision was clear.”

Examples in Sentences

  • Bases: “The military bases are spread across several countries.”
  • Basis: “The basis of her decision was grounded in legal principles.”

Frequently Confused Phrases

Certain phrases can confuse speakers of English, especially when bases and basis are involved. For instance, many people mix up “on the basis of” with “on the bases of.” The correct phrase is always “on the basis of” when referring to a single reason or foundation. It is crucial to avoid the plural form in this context, as it can lead to confusion and incorrect usage.

“On the Basis of” vs. “On the Bases of”

The phrase “on the basis of” is correct when referring to a singular reason or foundation. For example, “The decision was made on the basis of merit.” The plural “bases” is rarely used in this context and would sound awkward.

“The Basis of” vs. “The Bases of”

Similarly, we say “the basis of a decision” or “the basis of a lawsuit.” Saying “the bases of a decision” would be grammatically incorrect, as the plural form doesn’t fit here.

Other Common Phrases (e.g., “Touch Base” vs. “Touch Bases”)

Many people mistakenly say “touch bases” when the correct expression is “touch base.” This expression means to make contact or communicate briefly. The plural form does not belong here, so stick with “touch base.”

Tips to Avoid Misusing Bases and Basis

To avoid mixing up bases and basis, it’s essential to pay attention to the context of your sentence. Are you referring to multiple foundations or reasons? Then you need bases. If you’re talking about a singular foundation or reason, you should use basis.

Context Clues and Grammar Rules

The best way to know which word to use is to look at the sentence structure and the meaning behind it. For example, when discussing military installations, you would use bases because you are referring to multiple locations. But when talking about the reason behind a decision, use basis, like “based on legal reasoning.”

Examples of Correct Usage

Here are some correct examples to help clarify the usage of bases and basis:

  • Bases: “The bases of the new business strategies were carefully planned.”
  • Basis: “The basis for his acquittal was clear from the evidence.”

Final Words

In conclusion, understanding the difference between bases and basis is important for clear and precise communication. While bases refers to multiple foundations, whether physical or abstract, basis refers to a singular reason or foundation. 

By following the tips and examples provided, you can easily navigate these two words and use them correctly in your everyday language.

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