Stand your ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Stand your ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when encouraging someone to maintain their position or beliefs in the face of opposition or pressure. Example: "In the debate, she was advised to stand her ground and not back down from her arguments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Stand your ground, indeed.

The New York Times

"Stand Your Ground needs a second look".

The New York Times

Stand Your Ground laws are for them.

The New York Times

"Stand your ground" has a political pedigree.

The New Yorker

Stand Your Ground laws are abominations that should be repealed.

The New York Times

Stand Your Ground laws bring it all back.

The New York Times

Stand Your Ground should be abolished from the land.

The New York Times

Stand your ground when colleagues want to change things.

The Guardian

Stand your ground, not get too paranoid.

Vice

Stand your ground, and share your thoughts.

Huffington Post

Stand your ground.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stand your ground", consider the context. It can imply physical defense or maintaining a strong position in an argument or negotiation. Choose the phrase that best fits the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "stand your ground" loosely in discussions about self-defense. The phrase is closely tied to specific laws that remove the duty to retreat before using force, and misunderstanding or misrepresenting these laws can lead to serious legal and ethical missteps.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stand your ground" functions as an imperative, often used to encourage someone to defend their position, beliefs, or rights. It can also function as a noun phrase when referring to "Stand Your Ground" laws, as seen in Ludwig's examples from news articles.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

36%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stand your ground" is a versatile expression with both literal and figurative meanings. It is often used to encourage someone to maintain their position in the face of opposition, whether in a physical confrontation or a debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. However, it is particularly important to be aware of its legal connotations due to its association with specific self-defense laws. While commonly found in news, media, and informal contexts, its usage should be carefully considered based on the intended audience and message. Alternatives such as "hold your position" or "stay firm" may be more appropriate in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Hold your position

This alternative is more direct and less metaphorical, emphasizing maintaining a specific location or viewpoint.

Stay firm

This option focuses on unwavering resolve, suitable when facing pressure or opposition.

Defend your stance

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the act of actively protecting one's viewpoint with arguments or evidence.

Maintain your position

This alternative is suitable in both physical and metaphorical contexts, suggesting the preservation of an established status.

Don't back down

This option is more informal and highlights the importance of not yielding to pressure or intimidation.

Stick to your guns

This idiom is more forceful, suggesting a strong commitment to one's beliefs despite opposition.

Hold the line

This phrase implies a defensive posture, resisting encroachment or change.

Stay resolute

This alternative emphasizes unwavering determination and firmness of purpose.

Be steadfast

This option highlights the quality of being firm and unwavering in one's convictions or actions.

Keep your resolve

This phrase focuses on maintaining determination and commitment, especially in challenging situations.

FAQs

How is "stand your ground" used in a legal context?

In law, "stand your ground" refers to laws that eliminate the duty to retreat before using force in self-defense. These laws vary by state, so it's crucial to understand the specific legal definitions in your jurisdiction.

What's the difference between "stand your ground" and "duty to retreat"?

"Stand your ground" laws permit individuals to use force, including deadly force, in self-defense without retreating, while "duty to retreat" laws require individuals to attempt to retreat from a dangerous situation if it is safe to do so before using force.

What are some alternatives to "stand your ground" in a negotiation?

In negotiations, you can use phrases like "hold your position", "stay firm", or "defend your stance" to convey a similar meaning without the legal connotations.

Is it always appropriate to "stand your ground" in a disagreement?

While "stand your ground" implies maintaining your position, it's important to consider the context and potential consequences. Sometimes, compromising or seeking alternative solutions may be more productive than rigidly defending your stance.