happen on the ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "happen on the ground" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to refer to something that is taking place or has taken place in a physical location. For example, "We witnessed a major protest happening on the ground in the city center."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"Signing a national peace deal is not enough for peace to happen on the ground.

The New York Times

"Just about anything that can happen on the ground can and will happen on an aircraft".

The New York Times - Travel

"If there is a veto or a 'no' vote in the Security Council, what will happen on the ground?

The New York Times

If we're feeling particularly romantic, it's an easy place to indulge in musings that just couldn't happen on the ground.

The New York Times

I'm here in New York following these negotiations, and why we would like all this to happen on the ground.

The Guardian

"When people find an effective politician who can make things happen on the ground, they are willing to ignore the character flaws".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

But nothing happened on the ground.

The Economist

What happens on the ground?

The Guardian

"I've seen what happens on the ground," she said.

The Guardian

I have to observe what is happening on the ground.

The Guardian

The average voting Joe in India is only concerned with what happens on the ground.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events in conflict zones or areas undergoing significant change, "happen on the ground" can provide a sense of immediacy and realism.

Common error

Avoid using "happen on the ground" when discussing purely abstract or conceptual matters; reserve it for situations with tangible, real-world consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "happen on the ground" primarily functions as a verbal phrase to describe events as they unfold in a real-world setting. Ludwig confirms this usage with numerous examples illustrating its application across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "happen on the ground" is a commonly used verbal phrase that emphasizes the practical reality of events as they unfold. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, predominantly appearing in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. To avoid common errors, use it when discussing tangible, real-world consequences. Alternatives like "occur in reality" or "take place in practice" offer similar meanings. Overall, "happen on the ground" serves to highlight the immediacy and realism of situations, making it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

occur in reality

Focuses on the actual occurrence of events, emphasizing their real-world presence.

take place in practice

Highlights the practical implementation or realization of something.

unfold in the field

Suggests a gradual revelation or development of events within a specific area or context.

transpire locally

Emphasizes the localized nature of the events, indicating they are confined to a particular area.

materialize in action

Highlights the transformation from idea to tangible reality through concrete actions.

pan out in the real world

Focuses on the outcome or result within authentic conditions or circumstances.

come about physically

Stresses the tangible or concrete nature of the event's arrival or realization.

develop on site

Suggests a natural progression or advancement of events within a specific location or setting.

arise in the situation

Emphasizes the origin or emergence of something directly from the circumstances at hand.

play out in reality

Highlights the enactment or performance of events as they unfold in actual circumstances.

FAQs

What does "happen on the ground" mean?

The phrase "happen on the ground" refers to events that are actually occurring or the reality of a situation, as opposed to plans or theories. It emphasizes practical implementation and tangible results.

How can I use "happen on the ground" in a sentence?

You can use "happen on the ground" to describe real-world events, such as, "We need to assess what will "happen on the ground" if the peace talks fail." The phrase emphasizes the practical reality of a situation.

Which is a better way to say "happen on the ground?"

Alternatives include phrases like "occur in reality" or "take place in practice". These options provide similar meanings while varying the emphasis and tone of the expression.

What is the difference between "happen on the ground" and "occur in theory"?

"Happen on the ground" refers to actual events and practical outcomes, while "occur in theory" refers to hypothetical or planned events that may not necessarily reflect reality. The former focuses on tangible results, whereas the latter focuses on concepts.