based on a true story

Meaning

This phrase describes a movie, book, or play that is modeled on real-life events. While the core events actually happened, creators often add or change details for dramatic effect. It is a very common marketing term in the entertainment industry.

Examples

• The new horror movie is based on a true story, which makes it even scarier.

  The new horror movie is based on a true story, which makes it even scarier.

• Although the film is based on a true story, some characters were invented for dramatic purposes.

  Although the film is based on a true story, some characters were invented for dramatic purposes.

• I prefer dramas that are based on a true story because they feel more relatable.

  I prefer dramas that are based on a true story because they feel more relatable.

• He wrote a bestselling novel based on a true story from his childhood.

  He wrote a bestselling novel based on a true story from his childhood.

• Did you know that this classic thriller was actually based on a true story?

  Did you know that this classic thriller was actually based on a true story?

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The movie is based in a true story.

  ✓ The movie is based on a true story.

  We always use the preposition 'on' with the verb 'base' when talking about the source material of a creative work.

• ✗ It is a true story based movie.

  ✓ It is a movie based on a true story.

  The phrase 'based on a true story' should post-modify the noun rather than functioning as a compound adjective before it in this manner.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The director claims his new film is ___.

  💡 It means the film is modeled on real-life events.

  Show answer

  based on a true story

• I love watching documentaries, but sometimes a drama ___ is even more engaging.

  💡 Real events made into a dramatic movie.

  Show answer

  based on a true story