Preposition: 基于 (Based on)
介词：基于
Use 基于 to express that something is founded on or stems from a basis, reason, or condition
Place 基于 before the foundation, reason, or evidence on which something is based. The main clause that follows states the resulting conclusion, decision, or action.
基于 is formal and primarily used in written Chinese, academic discourse, and logical argumentation. It can also appear after the subject: Subject + 是基于 + basis.
Lesson Targets
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Podcast: Preposition: 基于 (Based on) (介词：基于)
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Understanding 介词：基于
基于 is a formal preposition meaning "based on," "on the basis of," or "in light of." It introduces the foundation — the evidence, assumption, reasoning, or condition — on which a conclusion, decision, or action rests. When you say 基于以上分析, you are signaling that what follows is a logical consequence of the analysis presented. 基于 is a word of logic and argumentation, extremely common in academic papers, legal documents, business proposals, and formal speeches. It lends weight and credibility to statements by explicitly connecting them to their foundations. The character 基 means "base/foundation" and 于 means "on/in," so 基于 literally means "founded upon." It can appear at the beginning of a sentence (基于这个原因，我们决定……) or after a subject with 是 (他的观点是基于事实的). Understanding 基于 also helps with related expressions: 基于此 (based on this), 基于以下几点 (based on the following points).
Key Points
- 基于 (jīyú) = "based on / on the basis of" — formal and logical.
- Introduces the foundation for a conclusion, decision, or judgment.
- Can begin a sentence: 基于……，我们…… or follow a subject: 这是基于……
- Primarily written/formal Chinese — in casual speech, use 根据 or 因为 instead.
- Common in academic, legal, and business contexts.
- Related expressions: 基于此 (based on this), 基于以上原因 (based on the above reasons).
In Chinese academic and business writing, explicitly stating the basis for your reasoning with 基于 is seen as rigorous and professional. It shows you have thought carefully and can trace your conclusions back to solid foundations — a valued trait in Chinese intellectual culture.
Key Vocabulary
Example Sentences
这两种不同的人生态度是基于对人生不同的理解。
These two different life attitudes are based on different understandings of life.
你的结论都基于假设，所以不可信。
Your conclusions are all based on assumptions, so they are not credible.
基于以上分析，我们建议采用第二方案。
Based on the above analysis, we recommend adopting the second plan.
这个决定是基于充分的调查研究做出的。
This decision was made on the basis of thorough research.
基于安全考虑，这条路暂时封闭。
Based on safety considerations, this road is temporarily closed.
基于双方的共同利益，我们同意合作。
Based on our mutual interests, we agree to cooperate.
Common Mistakes
基于 is for formal logical reasoning, not casual daily suggestions. For informal reasons, use 因为. Going to a park because of nice weather is casual.
基于 takes a noun phrase (原因, 事实, 考虑), not an adjective or emotional state directly. Restructure with a formal noun.
Practice Exercises
Tips & Tricks
Use 基于 when you want to sound analytical and professional — it signals logical reasoning.
The object of 基于 should be a noun phrase: 基于事实 (facts), 基于数据 (data), 基于考虑 (considerations).
In essays, 基于以上分析 (based on the above analysis) is a powerful transition phrase.
For casual speech, stick with 根据 or 因为 — 基于 in casual conversation sounds overly stiff.
Homework
Write a short formal paragraph (4-5 sentences) presenting an argument. Use 基于 at least twice: once at the beginning to state your basis, and once to connect evidence to a conclusion.