based on a true story

expression

  1. Used to say that a film, book, or play is fictionalized but was inspired by real events or real people.

    B1

    usually used after be or as a modifier before a noun

    • "This film is based on a true story."A2
    • "The novel, based on a true story, follows a young girl's journey across the country."B1
    • "Although it is based on a true story, the movie changes several important details for dramatic effect."B2

Common mistakes

  • based in a true story→based on a true story

    Use the preposition “on” after “based.”

  • based on a true story→inspired by true events

    While similar, 'inspired by true events' suggests a looser connection to reality.

Collocations

based on real eventsbased on a true storyinspired by a true story