decent ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decent ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a reasonable or acceptable basis for an argument, decision, or action. Example: "The evidence presented in the report provides decent ground for further investigation into the matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

On decent ground, he'll win".

The Guardian - Sport

I think he wants decent ground and that he's capable of running a big race.

The Guardian - Sport

Curtis, who says The Romford Pele prefers decent ground, believes he will stay the National distance.

The Guardian - Sport

We'll run him in a beginner's chase somewhere when we can find him some decent ground.

The Guardian - Sport

He reckons the horse is suited by a right-handed track and decent ground.

The Guardian - Sport

Lost Glory would need decent ground, not very soft, but was well beaten in the race last year.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

What we have is a half-crisis in the humanities, and some decent grounds for optimism.

The New York Times

But nice, decent, grounded, diving board body ready … that's not enough, I'm afraid.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He is also a decent, grounded guy whose humility and gratitude came through at a recent news conference announcing a five-year, $94 million contract extension that should provide nicely for generations of Roses.

The New York Times - Sports

The results from our various analyses corroborate previous works looking at gross anatomy and tooth wear, and together give us a decent grounding of the ecology of these animals.

The Guardian

But a reading of Margaret MacMillan's "Paris 1919," Ronald Steel's "Walter Lippmann and the American Century," David Halberstam's "The Best and the Brightest," and James Mann's "The Rise of the Vulcans" would already have given you a decent grounding in Beinart's material.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific context. "Decent ground" can refer to physical terrain, but also, metaphorically, to a reasonable foundation for an argument or belief.

Common error

While "decent ground" is acceptable, overuse in formal or academic writing can make your language sound less precise. Opt for stronger synonyms like "adequate foundation" or "reasonable justification" for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "decent ground" is typically as a noun phrase acting as a subject or object in a sentence. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct. Examples in Ludwig show its use in contexts related to horse racing and general suitability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "decent ground" is a grammatically sound phrase functioning as a noun phrase, often used to describe a satisfactory or acceptable condition, be it physical or metaphorical. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While most common in news and media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. For more formal writing, consider synonyms such as "adequate foundation" or "reasonable justification". Keep in mind while its most common use is for the surface suitable for sports, construction and so on, it can also be used to explain that some concept is based on acceptable or satisfactory logic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acceptable footing

Focuses on the stability and grip offered by the ground.

suitable terrain

Emphasizes the physical characteristics of the ground, focusing on its appropriateness for a specific activity.

satisfactory surface

Highlights the quality of the external layer of the ground.

adequate foundation

Highlights the underlying support or basis that the ground provides.

reasonable justification

Shifts the focus to a logical basis or rationale, rather than physical space.

passable earth

Emphasizes that the ground is traversable or can be used for passage.

serviceable base

Underscores the functionality and utility of the ground as a foundation.

tolerable soil

Used to denote ground material is okay.

respectable basis

Implies that the ground offers some form of support.

fair playing field

It is a more idiomatic expression used to indicate fairness and equal opportunity.

FAQs

How can "decent ground" be used in a sentence?

You can use "decent ground" to describe physical terrain, as in "The horse prefers "decent ground" for racing." Alternatively, it can refer to a logical basis, such as, "The report provides "decent ground" for further investigation."

What are some alternatives to "decent ground"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "suitable terrain", "reasonable justification", or "adequate foundation".

Is "decent ground" formal or informal?

"Decent ground" is generally considered neutral in register. It's appropriate for most news articles and general writing but might benefit from a more precise synonym in academic or highly formal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the term "decent ground"?

It is appropriate when describing a satisfactory or acceptable surface for activities like sports or construction or as a basis for arguments and decisions.