clearing the grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clearing the grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of preparing or making a space ready for a specific purpose, often in a metaphorical sense, such as in discussions or arguments. Example: "Before we dive into the main topic, let's start by clearing the grounds to ensure everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Near the apartment building, yellow excavators work through mounds of debris-filled soil, clearing the grounds for new construction.

The New York Times

About twelve Haitians are clearing the grounds and the tents are anticipated to arrive any moment.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Men perform the heavier tasks of clearing the ground for new gardens.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Behind her, though, bulldozers are busily clearing the ground for a highway.

The New York Times - Arts

As Stevens settles in, he is calming fears, clearing the ground for his rescue effort.

The Guardian

The forests of eastern Brazil were ravaged in the process of clearing the ground for crops, especially sugarcane.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After clearing the ground, Mr. Bryce gets to work demolishing cherished green beliefs about alternative energy sources.

The New York Times - Books

She had remained sprightly throughout, recalling how they "scampered down over the stones after the manner of the goats... clearing the ground at a famous speed" to get down the valley.

The Guardian - Travel

The county's chief executive, David Leatherdale, told BBC Hereford & Worcester last week that he was optimistic about the prospects for clearing the ground.

BBC

Hence, the punitive power of natural economic forces, which ultimately serves a constructive purpose by clearing the ground for more efficient businesses, was deadened and restrained.

Forbes

Down the road in Kolontar, the village first struck by the disaster, earth-moving machines take advantage of a sudden mild spell in an otherwise cold winter, to start clearing the ground for the first new buildings in the village.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "clearing the grounds" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being prepared or made ready, such as a discussion, negotiation, or project.

Common error

Avoid using "clearing the grounds" in casual conversation; it is more appropriate for formal writing and professional communication. Consider alternatives like "getting ready" or "preparing" for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clearing the grounds" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun in a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes the action of making a space ready, either literally or metaphorically, aligning with examples found in news and media contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "clearing the grounds" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase primarily used to describe preparing a physical area or metaphorically setting the stage for an event or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability. While less common in informal contexts, it is frequently found in news media and professional communications. Alternative phrases include "preparing the site" or "setting the stage". It's important to ensure that, depending on the context, it may require a specific term for the area being prepared. Common errors include overuse in casual settings, where simpler terms may suffice. According to Ludwig, the phrase is most often found in News & Media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preparing the site

Focuses on the act of making a physical location ready.

preparing the area

Similar to 'preparing the site' but more general.

making preparations

Highlights the preparatory actions taken.

setting the stage

Implies creating a metaphorical environment for an event or discussion.

paving the way

Suggests removing obstacles to facilitate progress.

laying the foundation

Emphasizes establishing a base for future development.

establishing a basis

Focuses on creating a starting point for reasoning or action.

sweeping the area

Similar meaning, highlights act of cleaning an area before construction or an event.

getting ready

A more general term for preparing or making something ready.

tidying up

A more informal way to describe cleaning and organizing an area.

FAQs

How can I use "clearing the grounds" in a sentence?

You can use "clearing the grounds" to describe the act of preparing an area for construction, or metaphorically to mean preparing for a discussion or negotiation. For example: "The construction crew is "clearing the grounds" for the new building."

What's a good alternative to "clearing the grounds" in a formal context?

In formal settings, consider using phrases like "laying the foundation", "establishing a basis", or "paving the way" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is "clearing the grounds" appropriate for informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, "clearing the grounds" may sound overly formal in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "getting ready" or "tidying up" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "clearing the grounds" and "setting the stage"?

"Clearing the grounds" often refers to physically preparing a space or removing obstacles, while "setting the stage" is more metaphorical, implying the creation of an environment or context for an event or discussion.