lose ground

USAGE SUMMARY

"lose ground" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical space/location, but also figuratively when referring to an intangible space/situation. Example sentence: In the upcoming election, the incumbent party is expected to lose ground to the opposition.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

If he backpedaled, he would lose ground.

The New York Times - Sports

In the 1930s the Radicals began to lose ground.

Encyclopedia Britannica

continues to lose ground globally to its archrival, Unilever.

The New York Times

When you force them to explain that, they lose ground".

The New York Times

WHEN did American start to lose ground in its industry?

The New York Times

The dollar will therefore lose ground in currency markets.

The New York Times

"We gain ground, then we lose ground, so it's disappointing.

The New York Times - Sports

Abstractions lose ground to wife, children and grandchildren.

The Guardian

Nonetheless, Hyundai fears it may lose ground to GM Daewoo.

The New York Times

But all the other major countries continued to lose ground to Germany.

The New York Times

In Japan, and perhaps also in France, it looks likely to lose ground.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lose ground", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being lost, such as market share, political support, or physical distance. For example, specify "the company lost ground in the Asian market" rather than just "the company lost ground."

Common error

Avoid using "lose ground" when the situation involves a complete and immediate loss rather than a gradual decline. For example, instead of "the team lost ground when the star player was injured", which implies a gradual decline, use "the team was crippled" or "the team's chances were severely hampered", to reflect a more immediate impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lose ground" functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms that is used to describe a decline, setback, or reduction in progress, position, or status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Sports

9%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lose ground" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a decline in progress, position, or status. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in news and media. To use it effectively, ensure that the context clearly specifies what is being lost. While alternatives like "fall behind" or "suffer a setback" exist, "lose ground" maintains a neutral tone appropriate for both formal and informal communication. Be mindful not to use it for situations involving immediate, complete losses, where other phrasing might be more accurate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fall behind

This phrase indicates a decrease in progress or position compared to others.

regress

This term implies a return to a previous, less developed state.

suffer a setback

This phrase suggests experiencing a temporary defeat or obstacle.

decline

This word denotes a gradual deterioration or decrease in quality, quantity, or importance.

retrogress

Similar to regress, but may imply a more significant step backward.

weaken

This term describes a decrease in strength, power, or influence.

be overtaken

This suggests being surpassed or defeated by a competitor.

cede advantage

This phrase suggests giving up a beneficial position or lead.

relinquish position

This implies voluntarily giving up a place or rank.

diminish in importance

This suggests a reduction in significance or value.

FAQs

How can I use "lose ground" in a sentence?

You can use "lose ground" to describe a decline in progress, position, or status. For example, "The political party is expected to "lose ground" in the upcoming election" or "The company began to "lose ground" to its competitors after the new product launch.

What are some alternatives to saying "lose ground"?

Alternatives to "lose ground" include "fall behind", "suffer a setback", "decline", or "be overtaken". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "loses ground" or should I always use "lose ground"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "lose ground" with plural subjects (e.g., "They lose ground") and "loses ground" with singular subjects (e.g., "He loses ground").

What's the difference between "lose ground" and "give ground"?

"Lose ground" implies an involuntary decline or setback, while "give ground" suggests a deliberate or forced retreat. For instance, "The army had to "give ground" under heavy fire," versus "The company started to "lose ground" in the market due to increased competition."