firm grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "firm grounds" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means a solid or reliable basis or justification for something. Here are some examples of how you can use it in a sentence: - "The lawyer presented firm grounds for his client's innocence." - "I have firm grounds to believe that the project will be successful." - "The company's success is built on firm grounds of hard work and determination." - "Despite facing criticism, the politician stood by his decision, citing firm grounds for his actions." - "I need more information before I can make a decision. I can't just take your word for it - I need firm grounds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

With his claim that I was auspicious to the proceedings Mr Singh was, by Indian reckoning, on firm grounds.

The Guardian - Travel

George Balanchine built his new American ballet on the firm grounds of the Russian classicism in which he was trained as a child.

The New York Times - Arts

On the old but firm grounds that you are always a better player out of the side than in it (based on promise and the memory of former glories which eradicate faults) no one had a better tour of South Africa than Ian Bell.

Independent

He has a lot of pace and could do well on the firm grounds of Australia".

BBC

The model offers firm grounds for prediction and bridges the gap between related clinical and experimental evidence.

Neuropsychologia

2010: Upholding a complaint against British anti-terror law allowing police to stop and search people without firm grounds for suspicion.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"We are on firm ground with this".

The New York Times

Now nothing is on firm ground.

The New York Times - Books

His pledge rested on firm ground.

The New York Times

He could never run on firm ground.

The Guardian - Sport

A firm grounding in business is also certainly a strength.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "firm grounds" when you want to emphasize that a decision, belief, or action is based on solid evidence or reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "firm grounds" when the evidence is weak or speculative. Overusing it can undermine your credibility if the justification is not truly robust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm grounds" functions as a noun phrase typically used as an object of a preposition or a subject complement. Ludwig examples showcase its use to denote a justification or a rationale for an action, belief, or decision.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

1%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm grounds" is a phrase used to describe a solid and defensible basis for an argument, decision, or belief. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and commonly used. As shown by Ludwig's examples, it is most frequently found in news and science contexts, carrying a neutral to formal tone. When writing, use "firm grounds" to convey confidence in the validity of your reasons. Remember, it's best to avoid using it when your reasoning lacks solid support. Alternatives such as "solid foundation", "strong basis", and "sound reasoning" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solid foundation

This alternative emphasizes the structural aspect of a base, suggesting a stable and reliable starting point.

strong basis

This highlights the strength and reliability of the underpinning argument or reason.

sound reasoning

This focuses on the logical and rational aspect of the justification.

valid justification

This suggests that the reason or excuse is legitimate and acceptable.

legitimate reasons

This emphasizes the lawfulness and acceptability of the grounds.

good cause

This indicates a morally or ethically acceptable reason for something.

substantive evidence

This focuses on the factual and provable aspect of the grounds.

reliable evidence

This emphasizes the trustworthiness of evidence.

convincing arguments

This highlights the persuasive nature of the reasons presented.

tenable position

This implies that the viewpoint or stance is defensible and justifiable.

FAQs

How can I use "firm grounds" in a sentence?

You can use "firm grounds" to indicate a solid or reliable basis for a belief, action, or argument. For example: "The prosecution had "firm grounds" to suspect foul play."

What's a good alternative to "firm grounds"?

Alternatives to "firm grounds" include "solid foundation", "strong basis", or "sound reasoning". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "firm grounds" or "solid grounds"?

Both "firm grounds" and "solid grounds" are acceptable, but "firm grounds" often implies a slightly more reasoned or legalistic basis, while "solid grounds" can refer to a more general foundation.

When is it inappropriate to use "firm grounds"?

It's inappropriate to use "firm grounds" when there is little to no evidence or logical support for a claim. Using it in such cases can be misleading or deceptive.