genuine grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "genuine grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing valid reasons or justifications for a belief, action, or decision. Example: "The committee found that there were genuine grounds for the appeal, leading them to reconsider the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

These are difficult times for the NHS, but there are genuine grounds for optimism.

The Guardian

The government asked the court to create this precedent, though in this case it had genuine grounds for suspicion.

The New York Times

Are there genuine grounds for the belief that we are engaged in a drive for planetary domination?

The New York Times

What's even more concerning is whether the future for women's rights in Saudi Arabia can present any genuine grounds for optimism.

Independent

The two men, and hundreds of opponents of the regime, are in prison but uncharged.In this section Yes to a ceasefire, no to a halt on settlements A toe in the water Shutting up Saadedin Skeletons under the sand Post-victory turmoil ReprintsOn May 12th Mr Meles had more genuine grounds for fear when his head of security, Kinfe Gebre Medhin, was shot and killed at the officers' club in Addis Ababa.

The Economist

He also believes Olympic inclusion provides genuine grounds for optimism.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Judge Kaplan said, "There is genuine ground to suspect Christie's good faith here".

The New York Times

The big question is how much genuine ground the Conservatives have made up against Labor during the campaign.

The Washington Post

So, no doubt, did the fact that its main administrators all have a genuine grounding as former notable players in the game.

The New York Times - Sports

But on this, my first foray into genuine grounding, I'm feeling like grounding a child — grounding a child and sticking with it, at least — is much harder than letting the transgression slide.

The New York Times

Mitchell's religious exploration, for all the attention it receives, all the intellectual sweat and practical commitment he invests in it and all its apparently genuine grounding in his soul, is ultimately dismissed as a sublimation of his desire for Madeleine.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "genuine grounds", ensure that you can provide specific evidence or reasoning to support the validity of those grounds. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid presenting "genuine grounds" as irrefutable proof. Instead, acknowledge that even valid reasons may be subject to interpretation or further scrutiny.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "genuine grounds" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "genuine" modifies the noun "grounds". It is commonly used to indicate that there are valid, real, or authentic reasons for something. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "genuine grounds" is a grammatically sound and usable expression indicating that there are valid or authentic reasons for something. Ludwig confirms its correctness. It functions as a noun phrase, often employed to justify or explain actions, beliefs, or decisions. While it appears across various contexts, it is most frequently found in news and media, and scientific texts. Alternative phrases like "valid reasons" and "legitimate basis" can be used to convey similar meanings. When using this phrase, ensure that you provide concrete evidence to support the validity of the grounds to avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

valid reasons

Focuses on the legitimacy and soundness of the reasons.

legitimate basis

Highlights the lawful or acceptable foundation for something.

bona fide justification

Emphasizes the good faith and authenticity of the justification.

real reasons

Stresses the authenticity and non-artificiality of the reasons.

authentic motives

Underscores the sincerity and genuineness behind the motivations.

sound justification

Focuses on the logical and rational nature of the justification.

veritable cause

Highlights the truthfulness and certainty of the cause.

true grounds

Emphasizes the correctness and accuracy of the grounds.

actual basis

Focuses on the existing and factual foundation.

concrete reasons

Highlights that reasons are solid and well supported.

FAQs

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

Use "genuine grounds" to indicate that there are valid reasons or justifications for a particular action, belief, or decision. For example, "The judge determined that there were genuine grounds for the appeal".

What are some alternatives to saying "genuine grounds"?

You can use alternatives like "valid reasons", "legitimate basis", or "bona fide justification" depending on the context.

Which is more appropriate, "genuine grounds" or "valid reasons"?

Both "genuine grounds" and "valid reasons" are appropriate and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to emphasize. "Genuine grounds" highlights authenticity, while "valid reasons" emphasizes soundness and logic.

What's the difference between "genuine grounds" and "good reasons"?

"Genuine grounds" implies a more formal or official assessment of the reasons, suggesting they have been carefully considered and found to be legitimate. "Good reasons" is more general and can refer to any reasons that are considered satisfactory, even if not formally validated.