grounding

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "grounding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the practice of establishing a strong and secure connection with yourself and your environment, usually through some kind of physical activity. For example, you can say "Going for a walk in the park was a great way for me to do some grounding".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"I had been at Brighton a long time, they gave me a great grounding but I felt it was the right time to come away and re-establish myself and make my own way.

The Guardian - Sport

Having worked as a teacher since 1983 – each position at a school in Camden apart from a brief spate as an adviser at Camden council – her training gave her a grounding in the ideas of child-centred learning.

The Guardian

For years, Catholic bishops had already been sniping from the sidelines at Merkel – a divorced, childless Protestant – saying that many of her policies (on stem cell research, for instance) had no grounding in Christianity.

The Guardian - Opinion

It gave me a great grounding in events.

The Guardian

Rand Paul has toned down to broaden his reach, believing that his libertarian grounding can be repackaged to appeal to a wider electorate.

The Guardian

He had a great grounding at Manchester United and was lucky enough to play under the great Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

David Wachenfeld, chief scientist of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, says it is "by far" the largest ship-grounding scar seen on the reef; it could take 20 years to recover.

The Economist

A ship-grounding scar UnGlorias A disgrace to the village Bottoming out ReprintsClose behind Mr Aquino is another senator, Manny Villar.

The Economist

A ship-grounding scar UnGlorias A disgrace to the village Bottoming out ReprintsOf the 225 seats in parliament, 196 are for elected MPs and the rest are shared on the basis of the number of votes polled by each party.

The Economist

A ship-grounding scar UnGlorias A disgrace to the village Bottoming out ReprintsThe government justifies its new stand by arguing that Afghanistan and Sri Lanka are "evolving" from their war-torn situations; it suggests a forthcoming review of both countries by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees might mean fewer asylum-seekers will be afforded refugee status.

The Economist

A ship-grounding scar UnGlorias A disgrace to the village Bottoming out ReprintsAs this year's chair of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Kazakhstan has been involved in intense efforts to defuse tensions.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "grounding" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly indicates the intended meaning, such as establishing a basis for an argument or finding emotional stability. Use it to express the act of returning to reality or establishing a solid foundation in abstract discussions.

Common error

While "grounding" is widely applicable, overuse in casual conversation can sound overly formal or technical. Opt for simpler terms like "foundation", "base", or "stability" for everyday contexts to maintain a natural tone. Consider using a more specific alternative based on the context.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "grounding" is as a noun, referring to the act of establishing a foundation, connection, or return to a stable state. It can also function as a present participle of the verb "ground". Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

32%

Science

32%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "grounding" functions primarily as a noun with various meanings, including establishing a foundation, physical or emotional stabilization, and, in technical contexts, electrical earthing or the grounding of a ship or aircraft. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across formal, business, and news contexts. While generally neutral in register, "grounding" leans toward formality. To use "grounding" effectively, consider the context and choose synonyms accordingly. Ensure clarity when employing it metaphorically and avoid overuse in casual conversations. The sources from The Economist and The Guardian show that it is commonly used in the news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establishing a foundation

Focuses on the act of creating a base or starting point, similar to the "grounding" as establishing a base.

finding your center

Refers to achieving mental and emotional balance, akin to the psychological aspect of "grounding".

getting back to earth

Implies a return to reality or a practical perspective, relating to "grounding" after a disorienting experience.

establishing a connection

Highlights the act of creating a bond with something, akin to the physical or spiritual connection in "grounding".

achieving stability

Emphasizes the outcome of being stable and secure, similar to the result of "grounding".

finding solid footing

Suggests finding a secure and reliable position, reflecting the stability provided by "grounding".

getting your bearings

Means to become oriented and aware of your surroundings, like the act of “grounding”.

returning to consciousness

Implies a return to awareness, reflecting "grounding" after a psychedelic experience.

anchoring oneself

Focuses on the act of securing oneself firmly, much like the stabilizing effect of "grounding".

stabilizing influence

Refers to the presence of a force that promotes stability, similar to the function of "grounding".

FAQs

How is "grounding" used in the context of personal well-being?

In the context of well-being, "grounding" often refers to techniques or activities that help you reconnect with the present moment and your physical body. It can involve practices like meditation, deep breathing, or spending time in nature to reduce feelings of anxiety or dissociation.

What does "grounding" mean in the context of electronics?

In electronics, "grounding", also known as earthing, refers to providing a safe path for electrical current to flow to the earth. This prevents electrical shocks and ensures the safe operation of electrical devices and systems.

What are some synonyms for "grounding" when referring to establishing a basis for something?

When "grounding" is used to mean establishing a basis or foundation, synonyms include "foundation", "basis", "base", and "underpinning". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does the meaning of "grounding" differ in aviation and shipping?

In aviation, "grounding" refers to the temporary or indefinite suspension of flights, often due to safety concerns or regulatory actions. In shipping, "grounding" refers to a vessel running aground, which is the unintentional contact of a ship with the seabed or shore.