This article explains the JLPT N2 grammar point 〜に基づいて (ni motozuite), focusing on its logical structure and the common pitfalls for learners.
Core
ni motozuite: An Unshakeable Foundation
Etymology and Meaning
Etymology: This comes from the verb 基づく (motozuku), which is a combination of the noun もと (moto – source/base) and the verb 付く (tsuku – to attach). In ancient Japanese, it described a physical location at the very root or base of something.
Meaning: Using a specific fact or set of data as “Evidence (Basis)” upon which a separate judgment, action, or plan is established.
The Core Image: A Solid Foundation
The core of “に基づいて” is the image of a Concrete Foundation (A) poured deep into the ground, upon which a Building (B) is constructed. The building must strictly follow the shape and position of that foundation.
- A (Foundation): Laws, data, facts, basic policies—things that are “unmoveable.”
- B (Building): Verdicts, plans, evaluations, actions—things “justified by A.”
Common Pitfalls
Misuse with Subjective Reasons
Learners often use this for personal feelings because the English “Based on” is very broad. In Japanese, this is a mistake.
- Incorrect: 「私の気分に基づいて、学校を休んだ。」 (I stayed home from school based on my mood.)
- The Rule: The preceding word (A) must be an objective fact, such as law, data, or research results. This is why it is frequently used in business—it eliminates subjectivity.
Placing a Verb Directly Before It
The word immediately preceding “に基づいて” must be a Noun. A foundation must be a solid “thing.”
- Incorrect: 「調査したに基づいて」 (Based on researched)
- Correct: 「調査結果（Noun）に基づいて」
Confusion with “〜をもとに”
〜に基づいて (Foundation): Logic of “Following the shape.” A is a rule or evidence that must be strictly observed. (e.g., Laws, Data)
〜をもとに (Material): Logic of “Processing a material.” A is a hint or raw resource used to create something new. (e.g., A novel based on [inspired by] facts, a design based on Hiragana shapes.)
Case Studies
最新の市場調査の結果に基づいて、来年度のマーケティング戦略を策定しました。 (We formulated next year’s marketing strategy based on the latest market research results.)
契約書の第5条に基づいて、今回の修正費用を請求させていただきます。 (We will invoice the repair costs based on Article 5 of the contract.)
客観的な評価基準に基づいた査定を行っていただきたいです。 (I would like an evaluation based on objective assessment criteria.)
Practice Quiz
Q1: 社内ルール（ ）、必ず業務報告を行ってください。
①に基づいて ②に基づいた
Summary
| Grammar | Logic | Image | Target |
| 〜に基づいて | Foundation | Unmoveable Base | Actions (Verbs) |
| 〜に基づいた | Quality Label | Quality Seal | Objects (Nouns) |
| 〜をもとに | Material | Raw Ingredients | Creation/Processing |
Q1 Answer: ① に基づいて
- Logic: The target of the sentence is the action “reporting” (行ってください). Therefore, we use the adverbial “て” form to describe the process.
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