levels the playing field

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "levels the playing field" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where conditions are made fairer or more equal for all participants. Example: "The new regulations aim to level the playing field for small businesses competing against larger corporations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

It levels the playing field, intellectually speaking.

The New York Times

"It levels the playing field," she said.

The New York Times

Levels the playing field, you know.

The New York Times - Sports

"It levels the playing field a little bit".

The New York Times - Sports

"It levels the playing field," Mr. Manny said.

The New York Times

"Date My Ex" levels the playing field even further.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Snowe's retirement levels the playing field a bit.

The New York Times

The argument is that uniform levels the playing field, making all students look the same.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Level the playing field.

The New York Times

So let's level the playing field.

The New York Times

Contextual data could level the playing field.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "levels the playing field" when you want to emphasize the creation of fairness in a competitive or comparative context. For example, policies that aim to "level the playing field" for small businesses.

Common error

Avoid using "levels the playing field" when simply describing a cooperative activity. The phrase implies a competitive environment where previous advantages existed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "levels the playing field" functions as an idiomatic expression. It signifies actions or conditions that reduce or eliminate advantages, fostering a more equitable environment. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, from technology to sports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "levels the playing field" is a widely used idiom that describes actions or conditions that create fairness by reducing or eliminating advantages. Ludwig's analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase is generally neutral in register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When aiming for more formal tone, consider using synonyms like "promote equity". Remember that using this expression is appropriate only in scenarios involving comparison or competition. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is indeed valid and useful to express fairness and equality across multiple scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a level playing ground

Similar, using a different but related noun (ground vs field).

equalize opportunities

Focuses more directly on ensuring everyone has the same chances.

create a fair situation

More general and doesn't necessarily imply prior inequality.

ensure equal access

Highlights the importance of having the same means of attainment or entrance.

promote equity

More formal and emphasizes fairness and justice.

eliminate advantages

Focuses specifically on removing any existing superior positions.

make things equitable

Stresses impartiality and fairness in distribution or treatment.

reduce disparities

Emphasizes lessening differences between groups.

foster impartiality

Highlights the need for an unbiased approach.

standardize conditions

Focuses on applying the same rules or requirements uniformly.

FAQs

What does it mean to say something "levels the playing field"?

Saying something "levels the playing field" means it creates a fairer situation, reducing or eliminating existing advantages that some participants may have had.

How can I use "levels the playing field" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe policies, technologies, or changes that reduce disparities and create a more equal environment. For example: "The new regulations aim to "create a fair situation" for small businesses."

What are some alternatives to "levels the playing field"?

Alternatives include phrases like "equalize opportunities", "ensure equal access", or "promote equity", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "levels the playing field" in formal writing?

Yes, "levels the playing field" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in very formal contexts, you might consider alternatives such as "promote equity" for a more sophisticated tone.