On what grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "On what grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to inquire about the basis or justification for a statement, action, or decision. Example: "On what grounds do you believe that this policy will be effective?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

On what grounds does one decide that objects deserve to be considered in moral deliberation?

Encyclopedia Britannica

On what grounds?

The New York Times - Arts

"On what grounds?" he asked.

The New Yorker

On what grounds are they being fought?

The New York Times

On what grounds, I wonder?

The Guardian

On what grounds do I ascribe them?

The Guardian - Opinion

On what grounds should he be defended?

The Guardian - Opinion

"On what grounds do they want to issue it?

The New York Times

On what grounds do the three writers agree or disagree?

The New York Times

On what grounds has Amy Winehouse secured a nomination?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

On what grounds is a new world to be constructed or joy sustained?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on what grounds", ensure the context is clear and the question directly relates to the justification or basis being questioned. It's often used in situations where you suspect the reasoning might be weak or contestable.

Common error

Avoid using "on what grounds" when you simply need a description of something, rather than a justification. For example, instead of "On what grounds is this building used?", ask "What is this building used for?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on what grounds" functions as an interrogative prepositional phrase, primarily used to solicit an explanation or justification for a claim, action, or decision. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it directly challenges the reasoning behind a statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

5%

Unknown/unmatched sources

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on what grounds" is a versatile phrase used to question the justification or basis of a statement or action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, often prompting further explanation or defense. When using this phrase, ensure the context requires a justification rather than a simple description. Consider alternatives like "what's the reason" for less formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What's the justification

Focuses directly on the justification behind a decision or action.

What is the rationale

Emphasizes the reasoning or logic used to arrive at a conclusion or decision.

Upon what basis

A more formal alternative, questioning the foundation or support for a claim.

By what authority

Questions the right or power used to perform an action.

What's the reason for

A direct way to ask about the cause or motive.

What are the reasons

Plural form emphasizing multiple reasons or factors.

How do you justify

Challenges someone to defend their position or action.

Where does it come from

Inquires about the origin or source of an idea or belief.

What evidence supports

Specifically asks for proof or data backing up a statement.

Why is that the case

Seeks an explanation for a particular situation or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "on what grounds" in a sentence?

Use "on what grounds" to ask for the justification or basis for a statement, action, or belief. For example: "On what grounds was the decision made?"

What's a less formal way to ask "on what grounds"?

Less formal alternatives include "what's the reason" or "why is that?". The choice depends on the context and your audience.

Is "on what ground" grammatically correct, or should it always be "on what grounds"?

"On what grounds" is the standard and grammatically correct form. While "ground" can be used in other contexts, "grounds" is used when referring to reasons or justification.

What's the difference between "on what grounds" and "on what basis"?

Both phrases are very similar and often interchangeable. "On what basis" might imply a slightly more structured or formal foundation, but the difference is subtle.