able to forge common ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to forge common ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where individuals or groups are working to find mutual understanding or agreement despite differences. Example: "In negotiations, it is essential for both parties to be able to forge common ground to reach a successful agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Obama has vowed to use his veto pen if Republicans pass legislation he opposes, but he has said he believes he may be able to forge common ground with them in some areas, including free trade, overhauling the tax code and boosting infrastructure spending.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The same is true for a school superintendent, but the constituencies between which they have to forge common ground are so much more intimidating: They're called "parents," "teachers," "students" and "school boards".

The New York Times

In a moment of do-goodery gone awry, Maura attempts to forge common ground with her pedicurist (Greta Lee).

Vice

By broadening the scope, China and the United States were able to forge common cause on issues like North Korea.

The New York Times

Or we can choose to do the hard work of forging common ground, and commit ourselves to the steady pursuit of progress".

The New York Times

They eventually forged common ground and were joined in 1956 by William J. Brennan Jr., another Eisenhower appointee with liberal instincts.

Los Angeles Times

He agrees, however, that their growing numbers and high voting rate -- combined with "ennui among younger voters" -- could make them fertile ground for a candidate able to forge an "emotional connection".

The New York Times

We were able to forge those partnerships several years ago".

The New York Times - Sports

They ought to be able to forge a political consensus on how to move ahead.

The New York Times

"It would be nice to be able to forge a working relationship with someone," she said.

The New York Times

Yet a few great presidents were able to forge their own legacies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to forge common ground", ensure the context clearly indicates differing viewpoints or objectives that require reconciliation. This emphasizes the effort and skill involved in finding agreement.

Common error

Avoid using "able to forge common ground" when the situation involves naturally aligned viewpoints. "Forge" implies effort and overcoming obstacles, so it's inappropriate when agreement is easily reached.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to forge common ground" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating the capacity or potential to create agreement or shared understanding. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is grammatically sound and effectively conveys the ability to overcome differences.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "able to forge common ground" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase denoting the capacity to create agreement despite differences. While not overly common, Ludwig AI reports its usage in news, scientific, and professional contexts. Key to its effective use is ensuring the situation warrants the "forging" effort, rather than simple agreement. Consider alternatives like "capable of finding common ground" or "able to establish consensus" for slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of finding common ground

Replaces "able" with "capable", emphasizing inherent ability.

able to establish consensus

Substitutes "forge common ground" with "establish consensus", focusing on agreement.

able to reach mutual understanding

Replaces "forge common ground" with "reach mutual understanding", highlighting comprehension.

able to build bridges

Uses a metaphor to represent creating connections and understanding.

able to find common interests

Focuses on identifying shared interests as a basis for agreement.

able to create unity

Emphasizes the outcome of bringing people together.

able to reconcile differences

Highlights the act of resolving disagreements.

able to foster agreement

Focuses on nurturing an environment conducive to agreement.

able to promote collaboration

Emphasizes encouraging cooperative effort.

able to facilitate consensus building

Highlights assisting in the process of reaching agreement.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "able to forge common ground" in a sentence?

Use "able to forge common ground" when you want to express the capacity to find agreement or understanding between differing parties. For example: "Despite their political differences, they were able to forge common ground on environmental issues."

What are some alternatives to "able to forge common ground"?

You can use alternatives like "capable of finding common ground", "able to establish consensus", or "able to reach mutual understanding depending on the context.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use the expression "able to forge common ground"?

It is most appropriate when describing situations where there are initial disagreements or conflicts that need to be resolved to achieve a shared goal. The term "forge" suggests an active and intentional effort to create something new or to reshape existing differences.

What is the difference between "able to forge common ground" and "able to find common ground"?

While similar, "able to forge common ground" emphasizes a more active and transformative process. "Forge" suggests shaping or creating something new, whereas "find" implies discovering something already present. Therefore, "forge" is used in scenarios needing significant effort to create unity.