common ground

USAGE SUMMARY

"common ground" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or opinion that is shared and accepted by multiple people or groups. For example, "The two sides were able to find common ground and come to an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's literally common ground.

The New York Times

"It's finding common ground.

The New York Times

A common ground.

The New York Times

Where's the common ground?

The New York Times

Is there common ground?

The New York Times

JEFFREY FRANK: Ah, common ground!

The New Yorker

There is some common ground.

The New York Times

But there was common ground.

Independent

Where is the common ground?

The New York Times

This is common ground.

The Guardian

Still, common ground exists.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking resolution in a conflict, actively seek "common ground" to build understanding and facilitate compromise.

Common error

Avoid mistaking a simple acknowledgement of the other party's position for genuine "common ground". True "common ground" requires a mutual understanding and acceptance of shared interests or beliefs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common ground" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes a shared basis for understanding or agreement. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is widely used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "common ground" is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase, signifying a shared basis for understanding or agreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its primary function is to establish a foundation for communication, negotiation, or cooperation across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia, and Science. While alternatives like "shared understanding" and "area of agreement" exist, "common ground" remains a direct and effective way to express the concept of shared interests or beliefs. Remember to seek true "common ground", avoiding superficial agreement, and use the phrase without the article "a".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shared understanding

Focuses on the mutual comprehension achieved, rather than the shared area of agreement.

area of agreement

Highlights the specific topics or points where agreement exists.

meeting of minds

Implies a convergence of thoughts and opinions leading to agreement.

shared values

Emphasizes the common principles and beliefs that individuals or groups hold.

mutual interest

Highlights shared advantages or benefits as the basis for connection.

point of convergence

Indicates where different ideas or paths come together.

commonality

A general term for shared characteristics or features.

consensus

Implies a general agreement among a group of people.

shared perspective

Emphasizes a similar viewpoint or way of understanding a situation.

basis for understanding

Highlights the fundamental agreement needed for further communication and cooperation.

FAQs

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

You can use "common ground" to describe shared interests, beliefs, or objectives. For example, "Despite their differences, they found "common ground" on environmental issues".

What are some alternatives to saying "common ground"?

You can use alternatives like "shared understanding", "area of agreement", or "meeting of minds" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "find a common ground" or "find common ground"?

The correct phrase is "find "common ground"" without the article "a". The phrase refers to a general area of agreement, not a specific instance.

What's the difference between "common ground" and "compromise"?

"Common ground" refers to shared interests or beliefs that can form the basis of an agreement. "Compromise", on the other hand, is the act of making concessions to reach an agreement, often involving both parties giving up something.