finding common ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "finding common ground" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to find a point of agreement or shared understanding between two or more parties. Example sentence: In order to resolve the conflict, the two countries must focus on finding common ground rather than dwelling on their differences.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's finding common ground.

The New York Times

Bringing people together, finding common ground.

The New York Times

She isn't given to finding common ground.

The New York Times - Magazine

Two guys from different backgrounds, finding common ground".

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Justices Thomas and Scalia were quickly finding common ground.

The New York Times

I think they are serious about finding common ground.

The New York Times

Their difficulty in finding common ground may also explain why their jokes are so terrible.

The Guardian - Film

They are about all of us, developed and developing countries, finding common ground and solutions together.

The Guardian

He took particular pleasure in finding common ground between opposing languages and techniques.

The New York Times

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton has spoken about finding common ground on this issue.

The New York Times

"We need a process of finding common ground and a solution.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "finding common ground" in your writing, ensure that you clearly define the context in which different parties are seeking agreement. This enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "finding common ground" as a panacea for deep-seated conflicts. Acknowledge the complexities and nuances of the issues at hand to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finding common ground" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the action of identifying shared interests or beliefs. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "finding common ground" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that functions as a gerund, indicating the action of discovering shared interests or beliefs. Ludwig AI indicates that it is commonly used in the media, academia, and formal business settings, with a neutral register that makes it appropriate for diverse communication scenarios. When writing, use this phrase to emphasize a cooperative and understanding based approach, while recognizing it may oversimplify complex situations. As the phrase implies, and based on the numerous examples provided by Ludwig, the act of "finding common ground" is crucial for effective communication and conflict resolution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discovering common ground

Focuses on the act of uncovering shared interests or beliefs.

identifying common ground

Emphasizes the process of recognizing shared aspects.

negotiating common ground

Highlights the bargaining or discussion involved in reaching an agreement.

establishing commonality

Implies creating a sense of shared identity or understanding.

building consensus

Suggests a collaborative effort to reach a unified decision.

achieving mutual understanding

Focuses on the outcome of comprehending each other's perspectives.

fostering agreement

Highlights the nurturing and development of a shared understanding.

seeking alignment

Emphasizes the effort to bring different viewpoints into agreement.

bridging differences

Focuses on overcoming disagreements to find a connection.

cultivating accord

Implies carefully developing a state of agreement and harmony.

FAQs

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

You might say, "The key to successful negotiation lies in "finding common ground" between the conflicting parties".

What are some alternatives to "finding common ground"?

Alternatives include "discovering common ground", "identifying common ground", or "building consensus", each with slightly different connotations.

Is it always possible to "find common ground"?

While "finding common ground" is a desirable goal, it's not always achievable, particularly in situations with deeply entrenched ideological differences. Sometimes, acknowledging irreconcilable differences is necessary.

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

"Finding common ground" emphasizes shared understanding and agreement, while compromise involves mutual concessions, where each party gives up something to reach a resolution. "Finding common ground" seeks shared values; compromise seeks workable solutions even without full agreement.