existing on the ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "existing on the ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is physically present or occurring in a specific location or context, often in contrast to theoretical or abstract concepts. Example: "The research team focused on the challenges existing on the ground in the affected communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Identifying local variance is critical to mounting an appropriate health system response: national averages and country-wide generalisations hide rather than reveal the variations existing on the ground.

Conflict and Health

However, the likely impact of the different forms of under-reporting would have been to underestimate the extent of poor safety practices in this population so these findings are probably an underestimate of the true scale of the problems existing on the ground.

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

* Relying on existing mechanisms and on-the-ground resources, Quartet representatives begin informal monitoring and consult with the parties on establishment of a formal monitoring mechanism and its implementation.

The New York Times

As a part of its core mission-driven activities, with the Mumbai — Strengthen ECCE for ICDS programme our objective has been not replace existing government structures, but to augment and build existing capacities on the ground using innovative technologies and media in a participatory manner.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

They will be followed by a larger team of 50, who will be deployed alongside existing crews on the ground.

The Guardian

In several cases, this has been done mysteriously by a wave of a magic wand from above, while existing staff on the ground are expected to continue to jump through hoops set higher and higher by an ever more stringent system of managerial career development.

The Guardian

The fans are asking the council not to transfer the existing leases on the ground to the club's new owner.

BBC

Furthermore, new challenges for future research are presented, which introduce a new kind of coordination between UAVs and existing VANETs on the ground.

Vehicular Communications

Your donation will go a lot further if you give to organizations who have staff and existing programmes on the ground and are already well integrated into the overall country responses.

TechCrunch

Religious leaders and institutions almost certainly represent by far the densest existing networks on the ground and are often the pillars of communities.

Huffington Post

Females may line forms with hair prior to giving birth, but some drop litters in existing depressions on the ground with no further preparation.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "existing on the ground" to emphasize the practical and real-world implications of a situation, especially when contrasting it with theoretical or abstract ideas. For example, when discussing policy, differentiate between the intended goals and the realities of implementation.

Common error

Avoid using "existing on the ground" when referring to abstract concepts or situations that don't have a physical or tangible component. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound awkward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "existing on the ground" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun, adjective or verb and adds specific information about where something exists or is occurring. It often emphasizes the practical or real-world aspects of a situation, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "existing on the ground" effectively conveys the practical realities of a situation, particularly when contrasting it with theoretical or abstract concepts. As Ludwig AI also confirms, it's grammatically correct and versatile, fitting into various contexts such as News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While "uncommon" in frequency, its specific usage highlights tangible aspects. When seeking alternative phrasing, options like "present in reality" or "in the field" may serve well, depending on the intended emphasis. Remember to avoid overuse in purely abstract contexts to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the field

Similar to "on the ground" but emphasizes a specific area of activity or work.

present in reality

Replaces "existing" with "present" and "ground" with "reality", emphasizing the actuality of something.

actually happening

Focuses on the action and occurrence rather than the state of existence.

in practice

Focuses on how something works in real-world situations, replacing the spatial element with a functional one.

in practical terms

Shifts the focus to the practical implications of something being real or present.

real-world situation

Emphasizes the tangible aspect of reality, rather than existence in a specific location.

on the scene

Highlights the location where something is taking place or existing.

in effect

Focuses on the operational or functional reality, rather than physical presence.

on-site

Specifies the location, but it's more about presence at a location rather than the nuances of 'the ground'.

at the location

Emphasizes a more precise physical placement.

FAQs

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

Use "existing on the ground" to highlight practical realities or conditions, especially when contrasting them with theoretical ideas. For example, "The aid organization adapted its strategies to address the challenges existing on the ground after the earthquake".

What is a good alternative to "existing on the ground"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "present in reality", "in the field", or "in practice" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "existing on the ground" in my writing?

Use "existing on the ground" when you want to emphasize the real-world conditions or practical implications of a situation. It is particularly effective when contrasting these realities with plans, theories, or expectations.

Is "existing on the ground" formal or informal language?

The phrase "existing on the ground" is suitable for both neutral and professional contexts. It's commonly found in news reports, academic papers, and business documents, so you can adjust your tone to reflect the formality of your writing.