hardbased

Hardbased is an informal term used in online discourse to describe a stance or approach that emphasizes verifiable, high-quality evidence and resistance to unsubstantiated claims. In discussions, someone described as hardbased is often expected to support assertions with data, sources, or replicable reasoning rather than relying on authority, emotion, or rumor.

Etymology and relation to based. The term appears to blend the word hard with the slang based, which is used to express approval or alignment with a position. Unlike based, which can carry irreverent or countercultural connotations, hardbased signals a deliberate insistence on methodological rigor and verifiable support for claims.

Usage and contexts. Hardbased is encountered in political, scientific, and cultural discussions where participants prioritize evidence. In political debates, proponents may demand citations to studies or official statistics. In science-oriented conversations, it may denote adherence to peer-reviewed literature and transparent methods. In general online communities, hardbased can be used self-referentially or as a critique of peers who rely on memes, anecdotes, or unverified assertions. Critics argue that an excessive focus on data quality can become gatekeeping or overlook important contextual factors.

Notes. As a slang term with varying usage across communities, hardbased lacks a single formal definition. Its precise meaning can shift depending on context and participant intent. See also: based, evidence-based, data-driven, critical thinking.