a possible ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a possible ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a potential reason or basis for a decision, argument, or action. Example: "The researchers identified a possible ground for further investigation into the effects of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

And pro-government forces were gathering nearby for a possible ground assault.

The New York Times

The statement referred in particular to the inclusion of suicide as a possible ground for abortion.

The New York Times

"We are here tonight on the eve of a possible ground operation," he said.

The New York Times

Israeli troops were reported to be moving south in preparation for a possible ground invasion of Gaza.

The Guardian

Israeli TV commentators said shelling could be used to clear Hamas-laid minefields ahead of a possible ground invasion.

The Guardian

After the air campaign began in January, preparations for a possible ground attack in Iraq were stepped up.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

We also observed HD 97658, but the observation window was based on a possible ground-based transit detection that was later ruled out; thus the window did not include the predicted time for the transit detection recently made by the Microvariability and Oscillations of Stars space telescope.

Princeton University

But in a news conference last Thursday, the Transportation Secretary, Ray LaHood, made no mention of a possible grounding of 787s.

The New York Times

Could a possible grounding of the 737 Max 8 fleet also affect other Max models, such as the Max 9? Both the Max 8 and the Max 9 have the MCAS system, and the Max 9 has also been targeted for grounding in several countries.

The New York Times

The government's rescue proposal came just hours before Alitalia was facing a possible grounding of its operations by Italy's civil aviation authority and came after a threat by Eni, Italy's state-owned energy company, to stop supplying Alitalia with jet fuel beginning on Saturday if shareholders did not come forward with a credible financing plan.

The New York Times

Medical issues have also been cited as a possible grounds for amnesty.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a possible ground", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a reason, a justification, or a physical location. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "a possible ground" in situations where the reason or justification is already well-established. Opt for stronger, more definitive language to enhance the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possible ground" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "ground" serves as the head noun and "possible" as a pre-modifying adjective. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

35%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a possible ground" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to introduce a potential justification, reason, or basis. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is appropriate across a range of contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clarifies whether you are referring to a rationale or a physical location and avoid overuse in situations that demand more definitive language. Considering alternatives like "a potential reason" or "a plausible explanation" can also enhance your writing’s precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential reason

Replaces "ground" with "reason", focusing on the cause or justification.

a plausible explanation

Shifts from a basis to an explanation that is believable.

a conceivable basis

Emphasizes the possibility of something forming a foundation.

a likely justification

Highlights the probability and defense of an action or decision.

a possible rationale

Focuses on the underlying principles or logic.

a potential site

Specifies the context to a physical location.

a prospective location

Emphasizes the future aspect of a place.

a hypothetical foundation

Highlights the theoretical aspect of the base.

a tentative justification

Implies that the justification is not yet fully confirmed.

a theoretical footing

Highlights the conceptual nature of the basis.

FAQs

How can I use "a possible ground" in a sentence?

You can use "a possible ground" to introduce a potential reason, justification, or basis for something. For example: "Lack of evidence was "a possible ground" for dismissing the case."

What can I say instead of "a possible ground"?

You can use alternatives like "a potential reason", "a plausible explanation", or "a conceivable basis depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a possible ground" or "a potential ground"?

Both "a possible ground" and "a potential ground" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey, with "potential" often implying something that is yet to be realized.

What's the difference between "a possible ground" and "a likely reason"?

"A possible ground" suggests a potential basis or justification, while "a likely reason" implies that the reason is probable or expected. The latter carries a stronger sense of anticipation or expectation.