Based on or Judging by

Question

Hello. I am often confused with the usage of "based on" in a sentence. So does it make sense in the sentence below?

"Based on their facial expressions, hand gestures and posture, we have the ability to understand whether they are feeling comfortable."

I thought of "Judging by their..." as an alternative, but I am not sure.

Thank you.

Doctor D · Accepted Answer

No, the two phrases are not always interchangeable. And "judging by" cannot be used in this sentence as given.

However, the sentence itself is not well worded. Normally, the introductory clause should directly relate to the term which follows it. But "we" are not "based" on anything. It is our ability which is based on something. I would have reversed the sentence structure:

We have the ability to understand whether they are feeling comfortable or not, based on their facial expressions, hand gestures, and posture.

Now, let us look at "judging by." This term should be used when a conclusion follows. (Yes, sometimes the order is reversed). I

For example: Judging by his expression, I am pretty sure that he flunked the class.

(In this case, you can substitute "based on."

Based on his expression, I am pretty sure he flunked the class.)

If there is no conclusion, use another term (like "based on" ) Based on my hiking ability, I offered myself as a wilderness guide. (My offer relied upon my ability--it was not a conclusion.)

Does this help?

Based on or Judging by

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