level playing field

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "level playing field" is a perfectly valid and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is generally used to describe a situation in which everyone is given a fair chance and equal opportunities. For example: The government is introducing new laws to ensure a level playing field for businesses of all sizes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Level playing field?

The New York Times - Sports

There is a level playing field.

The New York Times

It's about a level playing field.

The New York Times

"People want a level playing field.

The New York Times - Sports

"We want only a level playing field".

The Economist

"Now we have a level playing field.

The New York Times

It's a relatively level playing field".

The New York Times - Sports

Wall Street hates a level playing field.

The New York Times

It wasn't a level playing field.

The New York Times - Magazine

Is this really a level playing field?

The New York Times

Finally, a level playing field!

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advocating for fairness, use the phrase "level playing field" to clearly convey the need for equal opportunities and unbiased treatment in a specific context.

Common error

Don't assume that striving for a "level playing field" means guaranteeing equal outcomes; it simply aims to remove unfair advantages and provide everyone with the same initial opportunities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "level playing field" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes a situation or environment characterized by fairness and equal opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "level playing field" is a commonly used term, categorized as a noun phrase, that signifies fairness and equal opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and formal business contexts. When aiming to convey the idea of unbiased opportunities and fair competition, use "level playing field". While the phrase doesn't guarantee equal outcomes, it emphasizes the importance of removing unfair advantages. Remember that related phrases such as ""equal opportunity"" and ""fair competition"" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal opportunity

Focuses on the concept of everyone having the same chances, omitting the competitive aspect.

fair competition

Highlights the competitive aspect, ensuring everyone competes under the same rules.

equitable access

Emphasizes providing the same access to resources and opportunities.

just environment

Broader term referring to a setting where principles of justice are upheld.

impartial treatment

Focuses on unbiased and objective handling of individuals or situations.

unbiased approach

Highlights the absence of prejudice or favoritism in a system or process.

non-discriminatory practice

Emphasizes the avoidance of discriminatory actions or policies.

even-handed policy

Refers to a policy that treats all parties involved in an equivalent manner.

fair and square

An idiomatic expression suggesting honesty and justice in a situation or transaction.

rules of engagement

Highlights the regulations and expectations for how participants interact in a specific setting

FAQs

How can I use "level playing field" in a sentence?

You can use "level playing field" to describe situations where everyone has equal opportunities. For example, "The new regulations aim to create a "level playing field" for small businesses."

What's another way to say "level playing field"?

Alternatives to "level playing field" include "equal opportunity", "fair competition", or "equitable access".

What does it mean to create a "level playing field"?

Creating a "level playing field" means ensuring that all participants have the same opportunities and face the same rules, without undue advantages or disadvantages. It does not guarantee equal outcomes, but rather equal chances for success.

In what contexts is the term "level playing field" commonly used?

The term "level playing field" is frequently used in business, sports, and politics to advocate for fairness and equal access to opportunities. It's often used when discussing regulations, policies, or competitive environments.