a level playing field

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a level playing field" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is primarily used to represent fairness, or the state of having equal opportunities available to all participants. For example, you could write: "We should strive to create a level playing field in order to ensure equal opportunities for everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

There is a level playing field.

The New York Times

"People want a level playing field.

The New York Times - Sports

"We want only a level playing field".

The Economist

"Now we have a level playing field.

The New York Times

Wall Street hates a level playing field.

The New York Times

It wasn't a level playing field.

The New York Times - Magazine

Is this really a level playing field?

The New York Times

Finally, a level playing field!

The Guardian - Books

"It's a level playing field".

The Guardian - Books

A level playing field was averted.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A level playing-field doesn't tilt.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advocating for fairness, use "a level playing field" to emphasize that all participants should have the same initial advantages and opportunities. For instance, argue for policies that create "a level playing field" in education or employment.

Common error

Avoid using "a level playing field" to suggest that outcomes will be equal. The phrase implies equal opportunity at the start, not guaranteed identical results. Emphasize opportunity rather than outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a level playing field" functions as a noun phrase often used as an object or complement in a sentence. It denotes a condition of equality, fairness, or impartiality, where all participants have the same opportunities or advantages. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a level playing field" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound expression used to advocate for fairness and equal opportunity across diverse fields. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's prevalent in contexts like news, academia, and business, aiming to eliminate unfair advantages and promote equitable access. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it is essential to recognize that the focus is on providing initial equal opportunities rather than ensuring equal outcomes. To enhance your writing, remember that alternatives like "equal opportunity" or "fair competition" can provide nuanced perspectives, and avoid suggesting that a level playing field guarantees identical results.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal opportunity

Focuses on the availability of chances rather than the competitive environment itself.

fair competition

Highlights the fairness of the competitive process.

equitable access

Emphasizes the equal right to obtain or make use of something.

unbiased environment

Stresses the absence of prejudice or favoritism.

impartial treatment

Highlights the lack of discrimination in how someone is handled.

just and fair

Combines justice and fairness to reinforce the sense of equity.

equal footing

Suggests a similar starting point or advantage for all involved.

rules based order

Focuses on the establishment of rules that promotes fairness and transparency.

transparent process

Emphasizes the openness and clarity of the procedures.

level playing terms

It replaces "field" with "terms", shifting the focus to the conditions of the interaction.

FAQs

How can I use "a level playing field" in a sentence?

You can use "a level playing field" to describe situations where everyone has an equal opportunity. For example, "The new regulations are designed to create "a level playing field" for all businesses, regardless of size."

What's a good alternative to "a level playing field"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "equal opportunity", "fair competition", or "equitable access".

Is it always appropriate to aim for "a level playing field"?

While aiming for fairness is generally positive, consider whether complete equality of opportunity is truly achievable or desirable in every situation. Sometimes, affirmative actions may be necessary to compensate for historical disadvantages.

What does "a level playing field" mean in the context of international trade?

In international trade, "a level playing field" refers to a situation where all countries have the same opportunities and face the same rules and regulations, without unfair advantages such as subsidies or protectionist measures.