1 B2 informal
(Informal, non-standard American English) To use something as the foundation, source, or inspiration for something else.
"The script is based off of actual transcripts from the trial."
separable
base off of
B2 informal separable transitive
To use something as the foundation or model for something else (informal/non-standard, American English).
In plain English
To create or design something by using another thing as the main idea or starting point.
What does "base off of" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To found something off of another thing — the double preposition is informal but common.
Actually means
To create or design something by using another thing as the main idea or starting point.
Usage tip
This form (with both 'off' and 'of') is particularly common in casual American English, especially in speech and internet writing. Avoid in formal or academic writing; use 'based on' instead. The double preposition is considered redundant by usage guides.
Words that pair with "base off of"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
true story book real events character feedback data
How to conjugate "base off of"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
base off of
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bases off of
he/she/it
Past simple
based off of
yesterday
Past participle
based off of
have + pp
-ing form
basing off of
continuous
Hear "base off of" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "base off of" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.