found common ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "found common ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where two or more parties reach an agreement or understanding despite their differences. Example: "After hours of discussion, the negotiators finally found common ground on the key issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Across the sea, we found common ground.

The New York Times

The panel found common ground here.

The New York Times - Food

"ESPN and Jon have found common ground.

The New York Times - Sports

We would have found common ground.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They found common ground in their pressure-packed environments.

The New York Times

But the parties have found common ground in other areas.

The Guardian

But she and Jones had found common ground.

The New Yorker

That is where I think we found common ground".

The Guardian

Mingling afterwards, mayors found common ground across multiple divides.

Independent

Its different wings have rarely found common ground.

The Economist

RYAN: He found common ground, and he balanced the budget.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "found common ground" when you want to emphasize that differing parties have discovered shared beliefs, goals, or interests that allow them to cooperate. For example, "Despite their political differences, they found common ground on environmental issues."

Common error

Avoid using "found common ground" when the agreement is superficial or doesn't address core issues. Ensure that the shared understanding leads to meaningful cooperation or resolution, not just a temporary truce.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "found common ground" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of discovering shared interests, beliefs, or goals between differing parties, leading to agreement or cooperation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0.5%

Reference

0.3%

Wiki

0.2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "found common ground" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes the discovery of shared interests or agreement between parties with differing views. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to highlight successful negotiations, compromises, or cooperative efforts. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is appropriate for use in English writing. Alternatives such as "reached an agreement" or "came to a consensus" offer similar meanings. When using this phrase, ensure that the agreement is substantive and leads to meaningful outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

met on common ground

Highlights the act of convening or interacting in a space of shared agreement.

found a point of agreement

Emphasizes a specific area where parties concur.

found common cause

Highlights finding a shared goal or purpose that motivates cooperation.

reached an agreement

Focuses on the outcome of reaching a mutual decision or settlement.

forged a consensus

Suggests a stronger, more deliberate creation of agreement.

came to a consensus

Implies a collective agreement after discussion and consideration of different opinions.

identified shared interests

Highlights the recognition of common goals or benefits.

achieved mutual understanding

Emphasizes the successful attainment of comprehension between different parties.

discovered mutual understanding

Stresses the comprehension and empathy between parties.

established rapport

Highlights the building of a harmonious relationship or connection.

FAQs

What does "found common ground" mean?

The phrase "found common ground" means that two or more parties with differing opinions or interests have discovered shared beliefs, goals, or interests that allow them to agree or cooperate.

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

You can use "found common ground" to describe situations where individuals or groups with opposing views have managed to reach an understanding. For example, "Despite their initial disagreements, the committee members "reached an agreement" and found common ground on the budget."

What are some alternatives to "found common ground"?

Alternatives to "found common ground" include "reached an agreement", "came to a consensus", "identified shared interests", or "found common cause".

Is it better to say "found common ground" or "discovered common ground"?

Both "found common ground" and "discovered common ground" are correct and convey a similar meaning. "Found" implies a more active search, while "discovered" suggests a more passive finding. The choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.