exist on the ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exist on the ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is present or occurring in a specific physical location or context, often in contrast to theoretical or abstract concepts. Example: "While the theory suggests a potential solution, the real challenges exist on the ground, where resources are limited."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

They do exist on the ground.

The Guardian

You always have to be true to the places as you remember them, as they exist on the ground.

The Guardian - Books

"You can't come to these bodies that already exist on the ground and tell them that I want to finish you, or that I want to integrate you," he said.

The New York Times

Elsewhere, contentious parades at Castlederg, Ardoyne and in Belfast city centre illustrate the tensions that exist on the ground and highlight how the unionist and nationalist communities view the same events through different eyes.

BBC

However, since the majority of ruptures do not exist on the ground as a continuous crack, it would be difficult to fully comprehend linear surface rupture characteristics using only ground surveys or aerial photographs.

Earth, Planets and Space

The tale of two Coachella's does not exist on the ground at the festival.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

In spite of the banning of the Muslim Brotherhood, Islamist opposition still exists on the ground.

BBC

As we have noted, Hume's argument falls short of categorically denying that God exists on the ground that there is unnecessary evil in this world.

SEP

The current U.S. scheme rests on the misguided belief that a "moderate" militant faction exists on the ground in Syria in such numbers that, if adequately trained and equipped, could topple Assad.

Huffington Post

15 Challenges surrounding surveillance of this water-related infrastructure cannot be addressed until a clearer understanding of what exists on the ground develops and how this infrastructure impacts the quality of water it supplies.

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

It existed on the ground of bridging the gap between operational and clinical or biomedical research, as it was a big task for the NTRL/Central Public Health Laboratories to conduct both types of research fully, in addition to patient care, supervision of other laboratories, and conducting operational/implementation research.

Health Research Policy and Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exist on the ground" to emphasize the practical reality of a situation, especially when contrasting it with theoretical or planned scenarios. This phrase adds a layer of concreteness to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "exist on the ground" in purely abstract or conceptual discussions. The phrase is most effective when referring to tangible situations or real-world implementations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exist on the ground" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb to specify the location or context of existence. As shown by Ludwig, it denotes that something is present or operational in a practical, real-world setting.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exist on the ground" is a grammatically sound and acceptably common way to express that something is present or operational in a real-world, practical setting. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is most frequently used in News & Media and Science contexts. It's best used to emphasize the tangible reality of a situation, and should be avoided in purely abstract discussions. Some alternatives include "be present in reality" or "occur in the field". Remember to emphasize practicality and avoid overuse in abstract scenarios for optimal clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be present in reality

Focuses on the actual presence rather than a theoretical existence.

occur in the field

Emphasizes the practical occurrence within a specific area or discipline.

be operational in practice

Highlights the functional existence and active operation of something.

be in effect locally

Stresses the local impact and implementation of a system or policy.

be implemented physically

Focuses on the tangible implementation rather than a conceptual plan.

be active in the area

Highlights the active presence and involvement in a specific geographical location.

be established locally

Emphasizes the establishment and grounding of something in a particular place.

be verifiable empirically

Focuses on the empirical evidence and verification of existence.

be found in situ

Emphasizes the discovery of something in its original location.

be extant in the environment

Highlights the continued existence and prevalence in the surrounding environment.

FAQs

What does "exist on the ground" mean?

The phrase "exist on the ground" means to be present or occurring in a specific physical location or context. It often contrasts with theoretical or abstract ideas.

How can I use "exist on the ground" in a sentence?

You might say, "While the theory suggests a potential solution, the real challenges "exist on the ground", where resources are limited."

What's a more formal alternative to "exist on the ground"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "be present in reality" or "occur in the field".

Is it correct to say "challenges exist on the ground"?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase is often used to emphasize that challenges or problems are real and present in a practical situation, rather than theoretical.