general grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to broad or overarching reasons or principles that apply to a situation. Example: "The committee made its decision based on general grounds of fairness and equity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

But it is hardly as if the stable has general grounds for alarm.

Independent

The decision to do so was, however, taken on more general grounds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On political, ethical and general grounds, Duke refused to grant Mr. Nixon an honorary degree for speaking at graduation in 1954, though most speakers get one.

The New York Times

President Karzai, who has spoken up for the general – grounds for suspicion enough – has prevaricated about final approval for the Kandahar mission.

The Guardian - Opinion

Patrick Milliman, the Wildlife Conservation Society's director of communications and marketing, said, "At first we thought, 'Maybe we don't want to give away the tour,' " which cost $3 in addition to the $7.75 admission to the general grounds.

The New York Times

I ranked states by the McCain margin in 2008, and decided to define the swing states as the range in that ranking from Missouri to New Mexico, on the general grounds that Obama ain't gonna take Montana, and despite our loud governor, I very much doubt that Romney can take New Jersey.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

I've also formed some general ground rules for a proper travel cut.

The New York Times - Travel

He used to give talks quoting a World War I general: "Ground gain minimal.

The New York Times - Health

Your first year should provide a general grounding in general psychology, which will introduce you to the wonderful world of psychological statistics (maths GCSE is a must).

The Guardian

The years of the Dirty War form the general ground of the Pope's striking self-criticism: his experience, one Jesuit told me, was "searing".

The New Yorker

These graduate schemes should give you a good general grounding in business and the chance to focus on a particular area, such as human resources, or finance or marketing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "general grounds", ensure the context provides sufficient clarity, as it can sometimes be vague. Specify further if needed to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "general grounds" as a placeholder for actual reasoning. Instead of simply stating something is done on "general grounds", provide at least a brief explanation of what those grounds are.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general grounds" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an adverbial modifier specifying the basis or justification for an action, decision, or belief. It is used to indicate that something is based on overall or widespread reasons rather than specific ones. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "general grounds" is a versatile noun phrase used to indicate that a decision, action, or belief is based on broad or overarching reasons. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It appears frequently in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts. When employing "general grounds", ensure that the context offers sufficient clarity and consider providing more specific details if needed to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "general reasons" or "broad reasons" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general reasons

Emphasizes the broad justifications behind an action or decision.

broad reasons

Stresses the wide-ranging nature of the reasons involved.

general justifications

Highlights the overarching defenses or explanations.

overarching reasons

Signifies the dominant and all-encompassing reasons.

common grounds

Focuses on shared principles or understanding.

fundamental reasons

Emphasizes the core, essential reasons.

general principle

Refers to a fundamental rule or belief that applies widely.

basic rationale

Focuses on the elementary reasoning.

overall basis

Indicates the primary foundation or reason for something.

underlying rationale

Highlights the fundamental logic or reasoning.

FAQs

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

You can use "general grounds" to indicate that a decision or action is based on overall or widespread reasons. For example, "The policy was rejected on "general grounds" of inefficiency and cost."

What are some alternatives to saying "general grounds"?

You can use alternatives like "general reasons", "broad reasons", or "common grounds" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "general grounds" or specific reasons?

While "general grounds" is acceptable, providing specific reasons is often more persuasive and informative. Using both can strengthen your argument by providing both a broad overview and concrete details.

In what situations is "general grounds" most appropriately used?

"General grounds" is best used when the reasons are widely understood or accepted, or when detailing every specific reason would be impractical. For instance, in legal or policy contexts, a decision might be justified on "general grounds" of public safety or economic stability.