it is on the ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is on the ground" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the location of an object or situation that is physically situated on the ground. Example: "The package was delivered, and it is on the ground near the front door."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Douglas Alexander, Labour's election coordinator, writes for the Guardian: "The air war still has its place but it is on the ground where this election will be won or lost.

The Guardian

It is on the ground floor of the hotel and has its own entrance.

The New Yorker

The plane's auxiliary power unit powers the aircraft's systems when it is on the ground.

The New York Times

Some of it is elevated, some of it is on the ground.

The New Yorker

It is on the ground floor, with an entrance on 33rd Street.

The New York Times

We do not believe anything until it is on the ground.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Perhaps because it is on the grounds of the Topkapi Palace, from which Ottoman sultans ruled their empire.

The New York Times - Arts

It is on the grounds of their epistemic function in research that they appear so privileged.

SEP

The running backs vs. linebackers battle is one the Giants would lose – whether it's on the ground or in the screen game.

The New York Times

Virgin said it was checking into reports of mechanical problems and of the jet not having its air-conditioner running while it was on the ground.

The New York Times

It was on the ground for 40 minutes, she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is on the ground" to clearly indicate the physical location of an object, especially when contrasting it with being airborne, elevated, or in another location. For example, "The package was delivered, and "it is on the ground" near the front door".

Common error

Ensure that the referent of "it" is clear to avoid confusion. If the subject is unclear, replace "it" with the specific noun or noun phrase. Instead of "It is on the ground, near the tree", specify: "The package is on the ground, near the tree".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "it is on the ground" is to act as a predicate within a sentence, describing the state or location of a subject. It asserts that the subject is physically situated upon the ground. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is on the ground" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the location or state of something resting on the ground. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, but also in scientific and wiki sources, this phrase serves to provide clear and direct information about physical location. While generally neutral in tone, context and clarity are key to its effective use. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject, or “it,” is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases emphasize slight differences in meaning but serve similar functions. Remember to consider the specific nuance you want to convey when selecting an alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is situated on the ground

Replaces "on" with "situated on", adding a slightly more formal tone.

it rests on the ground

Uses "rests" to emphasize stability or lack of movement on the ground.

it is located on the ground

Emphasizes the specific location of something on the ground.

it lies on the ground

Suggests a flat or prone position on the ground.

it is positioned on the ground

Similar to 'located' but emphasizes deliberate placement.

it is at ground level

Focuses on the height or level relative to the ground.

it is touching the ground

Highlights the physical contact with the ground.

it has landed on the ground

Implies a recent arrival or descent onto the ground.

it is grounded

Uses the adjective "grounded" to describe something that is on the ground, often implying stability or a lack of elevation.

it sits on the ground

Suggests a more casual or informal resting position.

FAQs

What does "it is on the ground" mean?

The phrase "it is on the ground" indicates that something is physically located on the surface of the earth or a similar level surface. It can refer to an object, a situation, or a state of affairs.

When should I use "it is on the ground"?

Use "it is on the ground" when you want to specify that something is physically located on the ground, especially when contrasting it with being in the air, elevated, or in a different location. For example, when describing where a package was left or the position of a downed aircraft.

What are some alternatives to "it is on the ground"?

You can use alternatives like "it is situated on the ground", "it rests on the ground", or "it is located on the ground" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is on the ground" formal or informal?

The phrase "it is on the ground" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding language and the overall situation than on the phrase itself.