a solid ground

USAGE SUMMARY

"a solid ground" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a foundation or basis that is dependable, unchanging, or reliable. For example, "We built our success on a solid ground of trust and communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

"We came from her class with respect for her and a solid ground in English.

The New York Times

It gives us a solid ground to stand on, and therefore makes us more trusting and secure.

The New York Times

It includes new examples of her signature Infinity Nets paintings, in which small hooked strokes in a single color on a solid ground form a fluctuating mesh.

The New York Times

Dayne gives them a solid ground game and ball control, and quarterback Kerry Collins is one of the pleasant surprises in football.

The New York Times - Sports

The Dolphins were the 1970's equivalent of the Rams, steamrollering teams with a great passing game and a solid ground attack.

The New York Times - Sports

On a vast, unstretched canvas, against a solid ground of Pompeian red, three louche soldiers from a Latin American death squad joke around, over two corpses.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

I got a solid grounding in finance and other fundamentals.

The New York Times

That exchange will give you a solid grounding in their characters.

The Guardian - Books

Competent writing, X insists, requires a solid grounding in grammar and a long history of reading.

The New York Times - Books

There is a solid grounding of laboratory research which is completely consistent with their findings.

The New York Times - Science

When he moved on to management academia he had had a solid grounding in corporate life.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a solid ground", ensure it accurately reflects the idea of a firm and reliable foundation, whether literal or metaphorical. Choose this phrase when you want to emphasize stability and dependability.

Common error

Avoid using "a solid ground" in contexts where a more specific term would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase in abstract discussions can dilute its impact. Consider alternatives like "a strong argument" or "a firm understanding" when applicable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a solid ground" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a complement to verbs like 'build', 'stand', or 'provide'. It describes a foundation or basis that is strong and dependable, as evidenced by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

35%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a solid ground" is a versatile phrase used to describe a reliable foundation or basis. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, including news, science, and formal communications. When writing, remember to use it to emphasize stability and dependability. While the phrase is generally appropriate, avoid overuse in overly abstract situations where more specific wording might be more impactful. As showcased through the Ludwig examples, this phrase carries a sense of reliability and strength. When seeking alternatives, consider options like ""a firm foundation"" or ""a strong base"" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm foundation

Focuses on the foundational aspect, emphasizing stability and support.

a strong base

Highlights the strength and reliability of the underlying support.

a secure footing

Emphasizes the safety and stability provided by the ground or foundation.

a stable platform

Suggests a level and reliable surface for activities or growth.

a reliable basis

Focuses on the trustworthiness and dependability of the foundation.

a sound footing

Similar to secure footing, indicating stability and safety.

a robust framework

Implies a strong and resilient structure providing support.

a dependable foundation

Combines the reliability and foundational aspects.

a steadfast basis

Stresses the unwavering and firm nature of the foundation.

a resilient platform

Highlights the ability of the platform to recover from difficulties.

FAQs

What does it mean to build on "a solid ground"?

Building on "a solid ground" means establishing something on a firm, reliable, and stable foundation. This can apply to physical structures, relationships, arguments, or any endeavor requiring a secure base.

When is it appropriate to use "a solid ground" metaphorically?

It's appropriate to use "a solid ground" metaphorically when referring to concepts or situations that require stability, reliability, or a firm foundation. For example, "a business built on "a reliable basis"" or "a relationship founded on "a strong base"".

What are some synonyms for "a solid ground" that I can use instead?

Alternatives to "a solid ground" include phrases like "a firm foundation", "a strong base", or "a secure footing", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

How does "a solid ground" differ from "a solid grounding"?

"A solid ground" refers to the foundation itself, while "a solid grounding" refers to the process of acquiring a thorough understanding or training in something. For example, "the company was built on a solid ground of trust" versus "he received a solid grounding in mathematics".