on a level playing field

USAGE SUMMARY

"on a level playing field" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a situation in which everyone has a fair and equal chance of success. For example, "Allowing everyone access to the same resources and information provides a level playing field for everyone to succeed in life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We didn't operate on a level playing field," he said.

The New York Times

Now we're facing each other on a level playing field".

The Guardian - Sport

"We allow anyone to submit on a level playing field.

The New York Times

Schools should be competing on a level playing field.

The Guardian

Elections must be contested on a level playing field.

The Washington Post

It's impossible, we are not on a level playing field".

Independent

Air Force simply does not compete on a level playing field with Army and Navy.

The New York Times - Sports

In the opinion of the Republican presidential nominee, "we're not playing on a level playing field".

The Guardian

"The game itself lost because those talents were not displayed on a level playing field".

The New York Times

This low-carbon transition must take place on a level playing field.

The Guardian

How do new players enter on a level playing field if so?

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a level playing field", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes 'level' or 'fair' within that specific situation. For example, specify which factors are being equalized.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "on a level playing field" implies complete equality in all aspects. Instead, clarify which specific advantages or disadvantages are being addressed to create a fairer environment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a level playing field" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use to describe conditions of fairness or equality in competition, business, or other contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a level playing field" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to describe situations of fairness and equal opportunity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as an adverbial phrase, emphasizing equity in various contexts, especially in News & Media and Formal & Business settings. When writing, ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes 'level' or 'fair' to avoid misinterpretations. While several alternatives exist, such as "equal opportunity for all" or "fair competition", the original phrase remains a widely understood and effective way to advocate for just and equitable conditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an even playing field

Uses "even" instead of "level" to describe the fairness of the situation.

fair competition

This alternative highlights the aspect of just and impartial rivalry.

equal opportunity for all

This alternative focuses on providing the same chances to everyone, emphasizing opportunity.

just and fair environment

Stresses the ethical and impartial nature of the setting.

fair and equal terms

This alternative highlights the just and equitable conditions under which something occurs.

equal footing

Focuses on the idea of being on the same starting line or having the same advantages.

impartial conditions

Highlights the lack of bias or favoritism in the situation.

equitable circumstances

This emphasizes the fairness and justice of the situation.

balanced situation

Emphasizes equilibrium and equal chances.

a fair shake

An idiomatic alternative emphasizing equitable treatment or opportunity.

FAQs

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

Use "on a level playing field" to indicate a situation where everyone has an equal opportunity. For instance, "The new regulations aim to ensure that all businesses can compete "on a level playing field"".

What does it mean to compete "on a level playing field"?

Competing "on a level playing field" means that all participants have the same opportunities and face the same rules and constraints, without unfair advantages for anyone.

Which is correct, "on a level playing field" or "on an even playing field"?

Both "on a level playing field" and "on an even playing field" are correct and convey the same meaning. The choice between them is a matter of preference.

What are some alternatives to saying "on a level playing field"?

You can use alternatives like "equal opportunity for all", "fair and equal terms", or "equitable circumstances" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.