Based On vs. Based Upon – Which is Correct?

Both based on and based upon are grammatically correct and carry essentially the same meaning, indicating something is derived from or supported by a foundation. The primary distinction lies in formality: based upon is generally considered slightly more formal or traditional than based on, which is more common in everyday usage.

Based On or Based Upon – Which is Correct?

When comparing “based on” and “based upon,” it’s important to understand that both phrases are correct and convey the same fundamental idea: that something has its foundation, origin, or justification in something else. The choice between them primarily comes down to stylistic preference and the desired tone of your writing.

Historically, “upon” was a more common and formal variant of “on,” particularly when implying position or foundation. This distinction has largely persisted, with “based upon” often appearing in more formal, academic, legal, or literary contexts. “Based on,” being more concise and less formal, has become the dominant choice in modern everyday speech and writing.

The Best Trick to Remember the Difference

The best trick to remember the difference is to think of “upon” as a slightly more elevated or formal version of “on.” If you want your writing to sound more traditional, academic, or official, “based upon” can lend that tone. If you prefer a direct, straightforward, and universally accepted phrase, “based on” is always a safe and appropriate choice. Essentially, “upon” adds a touch of gravitas that “on” does not.

Word	Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Based On	Adjectival/Prepositional Phrase	Derived from; founded on; having as its basis or origin.	The movie is based on a best-selling novel.
Based Upon	Adjectival/Prepositional Phrase	Derived from; founded on; having as its basis or origin (often slightly more formal).	Her entire argument was based upon extensive research.

How to Use Based On

“Based on” is a versatile and widely used phrase that indicates the foundation, source, or premise of something. It is suitable for almost all contexts, from casual conversation to formal academic writing, and carries a neutral, direct tone.

Example 1: The film’s plot is loosely based on a historical event from the 18th century.

Example 2: Our company’s policy is based on the principles of fairness and transparency.

Example 3: He made his decision based on the information provided by his team.

Etymology of the word Based On

The phrase “based on” originates from the verb “to base,” which comes from the Old French word “bas,” meaning “bottom” or “foundation.” The preposition “on” has Old English roots, indicating position or contact. Together, they form a phrase that literally means “having its foundation on” or “resting on.”

How to Use Based Upon

“Based upon” is grammatically correct and functionally equivalent to “based on,” but it often carries a slightly more formal, traditional, or emphatic tone. It is commonly found in academic papers, legal documents, philosophical texts, and other contexts where a more elevated or precise language is desired.

Example 1: The court’s ruling was based upon established legal precedent and statutory interpretation.

Example 2: Her philosophical framework is based upon the writings of ancient Greek thinkers.

Example 3: The architectural design was based upon sustainable principles and local materials.

Etymology of the word Based Upon

“Based upon” shares its root with “based on” through the verb “to base.” The preposition “upon” is an older, more formal variant of “on,” combining the Old English “up” (upward) and “on” (position). This combination often implies a position of support or foundation, giving “based upon” its slightly more formal and sometimes more literal sense of something resting “up-on” a basis.

Related Concepts

Understanding related grammatical concepts can further clarify the usage of “based on” and “based upon.”

• Prepositional Phrases: Both “based on” and “based upon” function as prepositional phrases. They consist of a preposition (“on” or “upon”) and its object, and they modify a noun or verb, providing information about its foundation or source.
• Formality in Language: The choice between “on” and “upon” is a classic example of how different words can convey varying degrees of formality. “Upon” often signals a more formal or literary style, while “on” is more colloquial and common.

Examples from Media and Literature

• “The character of Sherlock Holmes was based on a real person, Dr. Joseph Bell, a surgeon at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.” (Arthur Conan Doyle)
• “Every human being has a right to a decent standard of living, based upon economic justice.” (Eleanor Roosevelt)
• “The new government policy is based on the recommendations of an independent expert panel.” (News Report)
• “His entire theory was based upon the premise that human nature is inherently good.” (Academic Journal)
• “The film adaptation is faithfully based on the original graphic novel, capturing its dark tone and intricate plot.” (Movie Review)

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. The committee’s final report was _____ extensive fieldwork.
2. Her latest novel is loosely _____ a legend from her hometown.
3. The judge’s decision was strictly _____ the evidence presented.
4. Their business model is _____ a subscription service.
5. The new regulations are _____ the need for greater environmental protection.

Answer Key

1. based upon (or based on, but “upon” adds formality suitable for a report)
2. based on
3. based upon (or based on, but “upon” fits the formal context of a judge’s decision)
4. based on
5. based upon (or based on, but “upon” can emphasize the foundation for regulations)

Based On Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Derived from	Originating or coming from a source.
Founded on	Established or built upon a particular principle or idea.
Grounded in	Having a firm foundation or basis in something.
Predicated on	Established or affirmed on a particular basis.
Rooted in	Having its origin or source deeply embedded in.

Based Upon Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Derived from	Originating or coming from a source.
Founded on	Established or built upon a particular principle or idea.
Grounded in	Having a firm foundation or basis in something.
Predicated on	Established or affirmed on a particular basis.
Rooted in	Having its origin or source deeply embedded in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Is “based off of” grammatically correct?
No, “based off of” is generally considered informal and grammatically incorrect by most style guides. The standard and preferred phrases are “based on” or “based upon.”

Question 2: Does “upon” always imply a more formal tone than “on”?
In most modern English usage, yes. While “upon” can sometimes be used interchangeably with “on,” especially in fixed phrases, it typically carries a more formal, traditional, or literary tone compared to the more common and direct “on.”

Question 3: Which phrase should I use in academic writing?
Both “based on” and “based upon” are acceptable in academic writing. “Based on” is perfectly fine and often preferred for its conciseness. However, “based upon” might be chosen in very formal contexts or when an author wishes to convey a more traditional or emphatic tone.

Conclusion

In summary, both “based on” and “based upon” are correct phrases to use when indicating that something has its foundation or origin in another thing. While they are largely interchangeable in meaning, “based on” is the more common and versatile choice for everyday communication, offering a neutral and direct tone. “Based upon,” conversely, lends a touch of formality and can be particularly effective in academic, legal, or literary contexts where a more traditional or elevated style is desired.

Pro Tip: For professional writing, choose the phrase that best aligns with the overall tone you wish to convey. When in doubt, “based on” is always a safe and widely accepted option. Critically, avoid the informal and often grammatically incorrect “based off of” to maintain credibility and clarity in your communication.