English UsageComparison guide
Based On vs. Based Off Of
Based On vs. Based Off Of follows Merriam-Webster’s evidence-based usage note: based on is preferred, while based off/off of is newer but attested.
Use based on for the established and broadly accepted form; based off or based off of is newer and may sound less formal to some readers.
Key details
Confusion Familyusage-construction
Rule Familyusage preference
Termsbased on, based off, based off of
Further guidance
Core difference
Merriam-Webster identifies based on as the preferred long-established choice; based off and based off of are newer forms used with the same meaning.
Style Boundary
In edited or formal writing, based on is the lower-risk choice because some readers still judge the newer forms as errors or informal.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Is it “based on” or “based off”? (opens in a new tab)Merriam-Webster · Usage guidance on based on versus newer based off/based off of