Translation guide
The English word "basis" refers to the foundation, starting point, or underlying principle of something. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 基盤 (kiban) for abstract foundations, 基礎 (kiso) for fundamentals, and 根拠 (konkyo) for grounds or evidence. The choice depends on whether you mean a conceptual base, a fundamental principle, or a reason for something.
The underlying support or starting point for something abstract, like a system, relationship, or argument.
Refers to a foundation or base, often used for abstract concepts like systems, economies, or relationships.
信頼が良い関係の基盤です。
Trust is the basis of a good relationship.
この理論の基盤は何ですか？
What is the basis of this theory?
Means foundation or fundamentals, often used for basic knowledge, skills, or principles.
数学の基礎を学ぶ。
Learn the basis of mathematics.
Literally 'foundation' or 'base', often used for physical structures or metaphorically for a solid base.
この計画の土台はしっかりしている。
The basis of this plan is solid.
The justification or evidence for a belief, decision, or action.
Refers to grounds, basis, or evidence for a claim or decision. Often used in formal contexts.
その主張には根拠がない。
There is no basis for that claim.
何を根拠にそう言うのですか？
On what basis do you say that?
Means 'reason', often used in everyday speech. Less formal than 根拠.
Expressing that something happens regularly or according to a schedule.
Pattern meaning 'based on' or 'on the basis of'. Used with nouns.
データに基づいて判断する。
Make a decision on the basis of data.
Means 'on a regular basis' or 'periodically'.
定期的に運動しています。
I exercise on a regular basis.
Means 'on a daily basis' or 'routinely'.
日常的に英語を使う。
Use English on a daily basis.
基盤 (kiban) is for abstract foundations (e.g., economic base). 基礎 (kiso) is for fundamental knowledge or skills (e.g., basics of math). 根拠 (konkyo) is for evidence or grounds (e.g., basis for an argument).
English phrases like 'on a regular basis' are often translated with adverbs or set phrases in Japanese, not with 基盤 or 基礎. For example, 'on a daily basis' is 日常的に (nichijouteki ni), not 日々の基盤で.
私たちは毎週会っています。
We meet on a weekly basis.
Natural Japanese uses 毎週 (every week) instead of a literal 'basis' phrase.
その決定はコストに基づいて行われた。
The decision was made on the basis of cost.
On what basis did you decide that?