In 15 Seconds
- A logical bridge connecting an assumption to a conclusion.
- Used to show your thinking is organized and evidence-based.
- Best for professional, academic, or serious persuasive discussions.
Meaning
This phrase means you are using a specific idea or assumption as the starting point for your logic. It is like saying, 'If we agree this first part is true, then the next part must also be true.'
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business strategy meeting
Based on this premise, we should double our marketing budget for Q4.
Based on this premise, we should double our marketing budget for Q4.
Discussing a movie theory with friends
Based on this premise, the main character must have been a ghost the whole time!
Based on this premise, the main character must have been a ghost the whole time!
Writing a university essay
Based on this premise, the study concludes that urban green spaces improve mental health.
Based on this premise, the study concludes that urban green spaces improve mental health.
Cultural Background
In Western universities, 'challenging the premise' is a highly respected form of critical thinking. It means you don't just argue against the conclusion, but you prove the starting assumption was wrong. In US and UK courts, lawyers use this phrase to build 'chains of evidence.' If one link (premise) is broken, the whole case (conclusion) falls apart. Tech founders often use 'premise' to describe their 'bet' on the future. It's part of the 'visionary' language used to attract investors. Scientists use this phrase to distinguish between 'known facts' and 'working assumptions.' It allows them to explore theories without claiming they are absolute truth yet.
Use it to win arguments
Instead of saying 'You're wrong,' say 'I disagree with your premise.' It sounds much more intelligent and forces the other person to defend their starting point.
Don't over-use it
Using this phrase more than once in a short email can make you sound like a textbook. Use 'Therefore' or 'So' to vary your language.
In 15 Seconds
- A logical bridge connecting an assumption to a conclusion.
- Used to show your thinking is organized and evidence-based.
- Best for professional, academic, or serious persuasive discussions.
What It Means
Imagine you are building a house. The premise is the concrete foundation. Everything you say next is the walls and roof. When you say Based on this premise, you are telling people exactly where your logic starts. You are asking them to accept one fact so you can prove a bigger point. It is a way to show you have a clear, logical plan for your argument.
How To Use It
You usually say this after you have explained a theory or a fact. Use it to bridge two ideas. It works like a logical glue. For example, first say: 'People love coffee.' Then follow with: Based on this premise, we should open a cafe. It makes you sound very organized and smart. You can also use it to challenge someone. If their starting idea is wrong, their whole argument falls apart. Just be careful not to sound too much like a philosophy professor at a party.
When To Use It
This is perfect for work meetings or academic essays. Use it when you need to persuade your boss to change a strategy. It is also great for serious debates with friends about movies or sports. If you are explaining a complex plan, this phrase keeps everyone on the same track. It signals that you are about to say something very important. It shows you are thinking deeply about the topic.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for very simple, emotional things. If your partner asks why you ate the last cookie, do not say Based on this premise. That is way too formal and might make them annoyed. Avoid it in quick text messages like 'See you at 5.' It is too heavy for casual small talk. If you use it while ordering pizza, the cashier might think you are joking. Keep it for moments that actually require a logical step.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from formal logic and philosophy. Western education emphasizes 'linear logic.' This means starting at point A and moving to point B. English speakers love to see the 'skeleton' of an argument. Using this phrase shows you value reason and evidence. It is a hallmark of 'high-level' English. It suggests you are an educated, critical thinker who does not just guess.
Common Variations
You might hear people say On this basis or Given this assumption. Some people say Assuming this is true. In very formal writing, you might see Proceeding from this premise. However, Based on this premise is the most classic version. It strikes a balance between being professional and being understandable. It is the 'little black dress' of logical transitions.
Usage Notes
This is a C2-level expression primarily used in formal registers. It is highly effective in persuasive writing and professional speech but should be avoided in casual social settings to prevent sounding pretentious.
Use it to win arguments
Instead of saying 'You're wrong,' say 'I disagree with your premise.' It sounds much more intelligent and forces the other person to defend their starting point.
Don't over-use it
Using this phrase more than once in a short email can make you sound like a textbook. Use 'Therefore' or 'So' to vary your language.
Examples
6Based on this premise, we should double our marketing budget for Q4.
Based on this premise, we should double our marketing budget for Q4.
Linking a market trend (the premise) to a spending decision.
Based on this premise, the main character must have been a ghost the whole time!
Based on this premise, the main character must have been a ghost the whole time!
Using a clue from the film to support a surprising theory.
Based on this premise, the study concludes that urban green spaces improve mental health.
Based on this premise, the study concludes that urban green spaces improve mental health.
Connecting a theoretical framework to research findings.
Based on this premise that cats are tiny tigers, we should probably buy a cage.
Based on this premise that cats are tiny tigers, we should probably buy a cage.
Using formal logic for a ridiculous or funny comparison.
Based on this premise, I don't think we are looking for the same things in life.
Based on this premise, I don't think we are looking for the same things in life.
Using logic to explain a difficult emotional realization.
Based on this premise, the deadline is actually impossible.
Based on this premise, the deadline is actually impossible.
Slightly formal but effective for making a clear point via text.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing words to complete the logical connection.
The company assumes that oil prices will rise. _________ _________ this _________, they have invested heavily in electric trucks.
The correct phrase is 'Based on this premise.'
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly in a formal context?
Select the best option:
Option B correctly uses the phrase to link a logical condition to a conclusion in a formal (mathematical) context.
Match the premise to the logical conclusion based on that premise.
Premise: 'All humans are mortal.'
If the premise is that all humans are mortal, the logical conclusion is that a specific human (Socrates) is mortal.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesThe company assumes that oil prices will rise. _________ _________ this _________, they have invested heavily in electric trucks.
The correct phrase is 'Based on this premise.'
Select the best option:
Option B correctly uses the phrase to link a logical condition to a conclusion in a formal (mathematical) context.
Premise: 'All humans are mortal.'
If the premise is that all humans are mortal, the logical conclusion is that a specific human (Socrates) is mortal.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsThey are very similar, but a 'premise' is usually an assumption that is explicitly stated as part of an argument, whereas an 'assumption' can be hidden or unstated.
In casual American English, people often say 'based off,' but in formal writing, 'based on' is the only correct version.
'Premise' is the standard spelling. 'Premiss' is an older spelling sometimes still used in formal logic, but it's rare today.
Only if you are being funny or having a very serious debate. It's usually too formal for texting.
Related Phrases
On the grounds that
similarBecause of a specific reason or evidence.
A priori
specialized formKnowledge that proceeds from theoretical deduction rather than observation.
Begging the question
contrastA logical fallacy where the premise assumes the truth of the conclusion.
Under the assumption that
synonymActing as if something is true.
