Understanding the Distinction Between Based and Living
Many of us often find ourselves navigating the complexities of different locations, whether for work, projects, or personal reasons. This article aims to elucidate the stark differences between being based somewhere and living there, using the experiences of a professional who works in London but frequently travels. Understanding these nuances can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of lifestyle and work.
The Role of Being Based
When we say someone is based in a particular location, it implies that their primary workplace or significant project is located there. This term is particularly relevant in the context of professions such as consulting, research, or strategic business management.
Professional Context: In the paragraph ‘I am based in London. That is where my office is, but I spend a lot of time travelling.’, the professional is emphasizing the importance of their workspace in London, which is likely their main office or project hub. This office or project may involve extensive communication and collaboration with local clients, teams, or stakeholders who contribute to the success of their overall mission. The fact that they ‘spend a lot of time travelling’ suggests that while the base of their work is in London, their professional activities extend beyond the city.
Living in a Location
Living in a location, on the other hand, refers to the personal aspect of residing in a given place, whether for personal or residential purposes. It involves the integration of one's daily life, social activities, and personal obligations within the local community.
Personal Context: In the paragraph ‘I live in London. That is where my home is, but at the moment I am based in Bristol because I am doing a project there.’, the individual is highlighting their home in London, which represents a permanent residence or their personal life base, even though the professional focus shifts to Bristol. It suggests a clear distinction: London is the place where this person makes their home and perhaps spends their leisure time, while Bristol is where their professional activities currently concentrate.
Exploring the Nuances
It is crucial to understand that being based and living in a place serve different purposes. The concept of being based implies a professional engagement, often temporary in nature, tied to specific projects or roles. Conversely, living in a place means having a more sustained and personal connection, integrating into the local community and daily life.
Illustrative Examples
Scenario 1: Business Consultant
A business consultant based in London may spend several days a week flying to different clients in the UK and abroad. While their core projects might be centered in London, they are frequently in transit or in other cities, performing consultancy work. This scenario underscores the temporary and professional nature of their based status, distinct from their permanent residency.
Scenario 2: Freelance Writer
A freelance writer might be based in multiple locations, depending on contract assignments, but they maintain a stable personal life in a permanent residence, such as London. Here, being based means being committed to specific tasks, while living means leading a fulfilling personal life that encompasses social and personal commitments.
Conclusion
The terms based and living are not interchangeable. They describe distinct aspects of one’s life and interaction with different locations. Being based underscores professional commitments and temporary setups, while living embodies the integration of personal life, ties to a community, and permanent residence.
Understanding these distinctions can help in better managing both personal and professional lives, especially for those who frequently travel for work or reside in different locations.
Keywords: based, living, location