ample grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

"ample grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to state that there is sufficient evidence that something is true or valid, or to point out that there is enough information to support a decision or opinion. For example, "The research team had ample grounds to be confident that the study would be successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

But even allowing for such hairsplitting, lagrein comes with ample grounds for confusion.

The New York Times

If its plan is unconvincing, the transport ministry already has ample grounds to cancel the contract.

The Economist

Wiggins saw ample grounds for optimism after the team's close-fought silver medal behind Australia.

The Guardian - Sport

But there are ample grounds for thinking that war against Iraq would be much tougher.

The New York Times

Disappointment Thousands of environmental policy makers and advocates left Copenhagen with ample grounds for disappointment.

The New York Times

Corbyn, who also called on May to resign, had ample grounds for celebrating.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Even without its succeeding acts, "Agamemnon" covers ample ground.

The New York Times - Arts

Union Rags needs clear sailing and ample ground to reach maximum cruising speed.

The New York Times

In those firm markers of Bush policy there is surely ample ground for a liberal counterattack.

The New York Times

Ample ground clearance helps here, along with an electronic, wheel-braking traction system to keep it moving.

Independent

Mr. Batson concludes there is ample ground for "equitable subordination" of the debts owed to the banks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ample grounds" to express that there's a considerable and solid basis for a belief, action, or decision. For example, "The data provided ample grounds for reassessing our strategy."

Common error

Avoid using "ample grounds" to describe large outdoor spaces. While "grounds" can refer to land, "ample grounds" is typically used to denote sufficient reasons or justifications, not physical areas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ample grounds" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that there is sufficient evidence or justification for something. For example, "There are ample grounds for concern."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ample grounds" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to indicate that there is a sufficient basis or justification for something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and suggests it conveys that there's enough information to support a decision or opinion. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it is also present in scientific and formal business settings, pointing to its versatility across different registers. While generally neutral to formal, understanding its proper usage—particularly avoiding its application to physical locations—is crucial. Related phrases like "sufficient justification" offer nuanced alternatives for varying contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ample cause

Replaces "grounds" with the synonym "cause".

sufficient justification

Emphasizes the adequacy of the justification.

adequate basis

Focuses on the foundation or support being sufficient.

reasonable cause

Highlights the rationality and validity of the reason.

substantial reason

Indicates a considerable and weighty reason.

good reason

A simpler, more general alternative.

valid justification

Stresses the legitimacy and correctness of the justification.

legitimate basis

Implies that the basis is lawful and acceptable.

sufficient evidence

Focuses on the evidentiary aspect of having grounds.

justifiable rationale

Highlights the logical and defensible nature of the reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "ample grounds" in a sentence?

Use "ample grounds" to indicate there is sufficient justification or reason for something. For example, "The new evidence provided ample grounds for an investigation."

What can I say instead of "ample grounds"?

You can use alternatives like "sufficient justification", "adequate basis", or "reasonable cause" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "ample grounds" or "sufficient grounds"?

"Ample grounds" and "sufficient grounds" are quite similar. "Ample" suggests a generous or plentiful amount, while "sufficient" simply means enough. The choice often depends on the desired emphasis.

When should I not use the phrase "ample grounds"?

Avoid using "ample grounds" when referring to physical land or property. This phrase is best reserved for situations where you are discussing reasons, justifications, or evidence.