The idiom "on a daily basis" refers to something that happens every day or is part of a daily routine. In essence, it implies a regular occurrence or a habit that is performed every single day.

In short:

"On a daily basis" refers to actions or events that happen consistently every day.

What Does "On a Daily Basis" Mean?

"On a daily basis" is an idiomatic expression that is used to convey that something happens every day or regularly as part of a routine or habit. This phrase is often used in the context of everyday routines, jobs, or tasks that occur regularly and repeatedly.

Let's delve into its main interpretations:

• It can refer to a habitual task or activity that a person does every day, such as brushing teeth or going to work.
• It can indicate regular, daily occurrences in the natural world, such as the rising and setting of the sun.
• The phrase is commonly used in formal and informal conversations and can be applied to a wide range of contexts, including personal, professional, and academic situations.

Where Does "On a Daily Basis" Come From?

The phrase "on a daily basis" is a relatively modern expression, coming into popular use in the 20th century with the growth of corporate and bureaucratic language. While its origins are not clearly documented, the phrase is frequently used in the contemporary English language and is universally understood.

Historical Example

""Eleven schedules operated on a daily basis from Chicago to New York; one schedule operated on a daily basis, except Saturdays and holidays, from Chicago to New York...""

- Economic Decisions of the Civil Aeronautics Board, 1945

Examples of "On a Daily Basis" in Sentences

Here are some examples of the idiom in use:

• Remember that you need to take the supplements on a daily basis. All best, Mom.
• As a teacher, she encounters challenging situations on a daily basis.
• As convenient as a drive-through can be, we aim to choose healthier options on a daily basis.
• My skin is dry as a desert, so I make it a point to moisturize on a daily basis.
• On a daily basis, he checks his emails and replies promptly to all important messages.
• She practices the piano on a daily basis to improve her skills.
• Even while we surf the net, we remain vigilant about online security on a daily basis.
• Reading the newspaper on a daily basis can help you stay informed about current events.
• They review their team's progress on a daily basis to ensure the project is on track.
• There's no rest for the weary, but it's critical to prioritize self-care on a daily basis.

Examples of "On a Daily Basis" in Pop Culture

The phrase "on a daily basis" frequently appears in pop culture, often used to describe routine activities or repetitive behaviors.

Let's explore some instances:

• American comedian Richard Lewis's autobiography is entitled "The Other Great Depression How I'm Overcoming, on a Daily Basis, at Least a Million Addictions and Dysfunctions and Finding a Spiritual (sometimes) Life."
• In the popular TV series "That '70s Show" (1998-2006), Donna Pinciotti (played by Laura Prepon) tells her mom and dad, "Ew! Why must you guys freak me out on a daily basis?"

Other/Different Ways to Say "On a Daily Basis"

There are numerous alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "on a daily basis."

Here are some of them:

• Every day
• Day after day
• Daily
• Day in, day out
• Regularly

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "On a Daily Basis":

• What does "on a daily basis" mean?

"On a daily basis" refers to something that happens or is done every day, regularly or routinely.

• How can I use "on a daily basis" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "To maintain my physical fitness, I go for a run on a daily basis."

• Where does the idiom "on a daily basis" come from?

The phrase "on a daily basis" is of modern origin and came into popular use in the 20th century.

• Can "on a daily basis" be used to describe occasional events?

No, "on a daily basis" specifically refers to actions or events that occur every day.

• Does "on a daily basis" suggest monotony?

Not necessarily. While it can refer to routine actions, it does not inherently suggest boredom or monotony.

• Is "on a daily basis" used only in professional or formal contexts?

No, the phrase "on a daily basis" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and applies to various situations, ranging from personal routines to professional tasks.

• Can "on a daily basis" refer to future events?

Yes, "on a daily basis" can refer to actions or events that will occur regularly in the future.

• Can you use it to emphasize the importance of a task?

Yes, using "on a daily basis" can underscore the regularity and therefore the importance of a particular task or event.

• Is it correct to say "on a daily basis" instead of "daily"?

Both "on a daily basis" and "daily" can be used to indicate something happening every day. However, "on a daily basis" can sometimes sound more formal or emphatic.

• Is "on a daily basis" a universal concept?

Yes, the concept conveyed by "on a daily basis" - the regular occurrence of something - is a universal idea, applicable across different cultures and languages.

Final Thoughts About "On a Daily Basis"

The idiom "on a daily basis" is a useful phrase to indicate regularity and routine in one's life. Whether it's about work, personal habits, or natural phenomena, this phrase is an effective way to express the daily occurrence of an action or event.

Here's a quick recap:

• "On a daily basis" signifies actions or events happening every day.
• This phrase can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
• While it emphasizes regularity, it doesn't inherently suggest monotony.

Whether it's about a daily exercise routine, checking emails, or the sun's daily journey across the sky, "on a daily basis" is a common and useful phrase in the English language.