on a grade

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a grade" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to education, assessments, or evaluations, typically referring to a specific level or score achieved. Example: "She received an A on a grade for her final project, which impressed her professor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Using information provided, they had to select the minimum number of hand brakes needed to secure a 10-car train parked on a grade for more than 30 minutes (five), and the number of R28 subway cars in a train consisting of five two-car units that would extend beyond the end of a 450-foot platworm (two).

The New York Times

On the last one, 12.8 kilometers (8 miles) on a grade of 6.8percenttothethe resort of La Mongie, his rivals were left behind.

The New York Times - Sports

On a grade at Hot Lake, however, he tried fifteenth gear, and his foot had to graze the pedal.

The New Yorker

To pin a student's success or failure in life on a grade school teacher I find questionable.

The New York Times

As another series of Celebrity Big Brother comes to an end, the karmic cycle of Z-list inanity on a grade A scale takes another turn.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"ONE day, my commuter train struck a car carrier, which had bottomed out on a grade crossing," writes David A. Katz, a geneticist who lives in Evanston, Ill.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

It was for a 99-year lease on a grade-A chunk of real estate.

The New York Times

The cafe, a punchy take on a grade-school cafeteria, is awash in cheerful shades of green and yellow.

The New York Times - Travel

A recent Gilbert column, summarizing the results of a poll, said, "Less than 30percentnt could manage a passing mark on a grade-school-level Bible test".

The New Yorker

A local educational agency may meet the requirements of subparagraphs (A) and (B) on a grade-span by grade-span basis or a school-by-school basis.

Cornell University

Many factors influence the incidence of mechanical damage in fruit handled on a grading line.

Computers and Electronics in Agriculture

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing geographical features or road construction, use "on a grade" to specify the degree of inclination or slope. This provides clarity and precision, especially in technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "on a grade" when referring to academic grades or quality levels. In those contexts, use phrases like "receiving a good grade" or "a high-grade material" instead to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a grade" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a noun or verb to indicate the presence of a slope or incline. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, demonstrated in examples describing roads, railways, and geographical features.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a grade" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that describes the presence of a slope or incline. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias. When using this phrase, be mindful to differentiate its meaning from other senses of "grade," such as academic scores or quality levels. Consider alternatives like "on a slope" or "on an incline" for nuanced variations, and always ensure context appropriateness for clarity. Based on Ludwig's analysis, understanding these nuances will help ensure effective and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a slope

This alternative directly replaces "grade" with a synonym, focusing on the physical incline.

on an incline

Similar to "on a slope", this emphasizes the rising or falling nature of the ground.

on a gradient

This alternative uses a more technical term for the rate of inclination.

on a ramp

This specifies a man-made inclined surface.

on a decline

This focuses specifically on a downward slope.

on a rise

This focuses specifically on an upward slope.

uphill

This single word concisely conveys the idea of moving upwards on a grade.

downhill

This single word concisely conveys the idea of moving downwards on a grade.

on a level

This provides a contrast, indicating a flat surface with no grade.

at a slant

This emphasizes the angled position rather than the precise measurement of the grade.

FAQs

How is "on a grade" used in technical descriptions?

In technical fields such as civil engineering or transportation, "on a grade" describes the slope or inclination of a road, railway, or other surface. For example, "The train struggled to ascend the tracks "on a grade" exceeding 3 percent".

What prepositions can be used with "grade" other than "on"?

While "on a grade" is common for describing slopes, "at a grade" can also be used, though less frequently. The choice often depends on the specific context and regional preferences.

How does "on a grade" differ from "on a slope"?

"On a slope" is a more general term, while ""on a grade"" implies a measured or specified degree of inclination. Using "on a grade" suggests a more technical or precise description of the incline.

What are some alternative ways to describe something built "on a grade"?

Instead of saying something is built ""on a grade"", you could say it is built "on a slope", "on an incline", or "on a gradient", depending on the desired level of specificity. These alternatives are useful when you want to avoid repetition or provide a slightly different nuance.