meet on common ground

USAGE SUMMARY

"meet on common ground" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to express a situation in which two or more parties compromise or find a shared solution to a problem. For example, "After much discussion, the two sides agreed to meet on common ground in order to resolve their differences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Future 500, a San Francisco-based nonprofit that forges alliances between conservatives, progressives, corporations, and activists, is an informal clearinghouse that helps these erstwhile adversaries find one another, and meet on common ground.

Huffington Post

On the soccer field, feelings are not much warmer, but at least in the setting of the Women's World Cup, the teams and players meet on common ground, if for only 90 minutes.

The New York Times

They hail from different but interconnected regions of the modern-jazz continuum, so when they meet on common ground -- as they did for a Nonesuch album a few years ago, and during a subsequent week at the Blue Note -- their rapport can feel winningly open-ended, subject to a host of internal adjustments.

The New York Times

He and Dürer's singular painting meet on common ground.

Los Angeles Times

In a sense, her drawings allow her sculptural, painterly and architectural skills to meet on common ground.

Huffington Post

By using dialogue and promoting education, people can then meet on common ground and understand each other as fellow citizens and human beings.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"I think it went pretty well, I think we met on common ground," Fobister said of his most recent meeting with the minister.

Vice

"You have to meet celebrities on common ground, even though there is none," said a director I know.

The New York Times - Style

We've become two people traveling in opposite directions, and I've been trying so desperately to alter my path so that we can meet once again on common ground.

Huffington Post

The fact that the hosts and the participants were able to overcome political differences and meet each other on common ground has had only positive outcomes and stands as an exemplar for those who believe that grass roots communication is the best way to tackle issues of global concern and begin to break down barriers.

Diabetes Care

The two must meet on a common ground of mutual respect.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "meet on common ground", ensure that all parties involved are willing to compromise and understand each other's perspectives. Dialogue and open communication are key to successfully finding shared interests or solutions.

Common error

Don't assume that simply stating the intention to "meet on common ground" will guarantee a successful outcome. Active listening, empathy, and a willingness to yield on certain points are essential for bridging divides.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "meet on common ground" functions as a verbal phrase emphasizing the action of finding agreement or compromise between parties. Ludwig examples show this phrase used in diverse contexts, highlighting its flexibility in expressing the concept of conflict resolution and cooperation. This is consistent with Ludwig AI's analysis.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "meet on common ground" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression that signifies the endeavor to discover areas of agreement or compromise amidst differing viewpoints. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and prevalent application across various contexts. Although categorized as having "Uncommon" frequency, it appears in respected sources like The New York Times and Huffington Post, indicating its relevance in describing scenarios of negotiation and conflict resolution. When employing this phrase, it's essential to foster open communication and a willingness to compromise, steering clear of assumptions about automatic agreement. Alternatives like "find common ground" or "reach a consensus" can offer nuanced perspectives based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

find common ground

Slightly more general; focuses on the discovery of shared interests rather than the act of meeting.

find a middle ground

Focuses on a compromise point between differing opinions.

find a compromise

Focuses specifically on each side making concessions.

reach a consensus

Emphasizes the agreement aspect, suggesting a formal decision.

come to an agreement

Highlights the process of reaching a settlement.

find commonality

Focuses on discovering shared traits or interests.

settle differences

Highlights resolving conflicts or disagreements.

build bridges

Emphasizes establishing connections to reach an agreement.

bury the hatchet

An idiomatic expression that means to make peace.

establish rapport

Focuses on building a harmonious relationship, often as a precursor to agreement.

FAQs

What does "meet on common ground" mean?

The phrase "meet on common ground" means to find areas of agreement or compromise between different parties, even when they have conflicting views or interests. It implies a willingness to find a solution that satisfies everyone involved.

How can I use "meet on common ground" in a sentence?

You can use "meet on common ground" to describe situations where people with differing opinions come together to find a shared understanding, as in, "After a long debate, the committee members were able to "find common ground" and agree on a solution."

What is another way to say "meet on common ground"?

Alternatives to "meet on common ground" include "reach a consensus", "come to an agreement", or "find a middle ground". These phrases all suggest finding a point of agreement between different parties.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "meet on common ground"?

The phrase "meet on common ground" is appropriate in situations involving negotiations, conflict resolution, or collaboration, where the goal is to find a mutually acceptable outcome. It is particularly useful when parties initially hold opposing viewpoints.