I am writing some technical documentation and I'm wondering whether of or for is the best word to use in the following sentence:
The framework and architecture will form the basis {of|for} our web applications.
This is a fairly specific example. Is there a general rule for this? Or is it more of a case-by-case decision?
Best Answer
Both.
Forming the basis of means it is essentially the sole basis.
OTOH,
Forming the basis for could mean it is one of the factors forming the basis.
basis of:
basis for:
[emphasis mine]
Regardless, it seems there's a tendency these days to prefer for over of, especially in AmE.
English:
American English:
eCFR: