on a level surface

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a level surface" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a flat or even area where an object is placed or an action takes place. Example: "Make sure to place the vase on a level surface to prevent it from tipping over."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Place an analogue wristwatch, (one with hands), on a level surface.

WikiHow

Set the gas burner on a level surface because this is one of the safest options to ensure that the fryer doesn't tip over.

WikiHow

This finalizing business takes about a minute, during which you're supposed to keep the camera on a level surface.

The New York Times - Tech

It's obvious, however, that the characters on board are on a level surface.

The New York Times - Arts

Examples include a weight suspended by a spring or a brick lying on a level surface.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The device is on a level surface when the bubble is in the middle of the glass tube.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If a hard ball is rolling on a level surface, the ball is somewhat flattened and the level surface somewhat indented in the regions in contact.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Stick the frame on a level surface and it'll rotate!

TechCrunch

The U-Charge connects directly to your MacBook battery's terminals and thus needs to be put on a level surface to ensure proper contact.

TechCrunch

The connecting terminal is really fragile (not material-wise) and you have to have the battery and U-Charge on a level surface so the contacts are properly aligned.

TechCrunch

Here's a full-working 1/4-sized tank "powered by two, 500 watt 24 volt motors which are so powerful that it can pull a car on a level surface," according to the Sun.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to place an object "on a level surface", ensure they understand the importance of stability and preventing potential hazards like tipping or imbalance.

Common error

Don't rely solely on visual inspection to determine if a surface is level. Use a leveling tool, such as a spirit level, to confirm. A slight incline can be imperceptible to the eye but significant enough to cause issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a level surface" primarily functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb by indicating the location or condition under which an action is performed or a state exists. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is widely used across different contexts. It specifies the spatial arrangement required for an object or activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

27%

News & Media

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a level surface" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates a flat and even area. As Ludwig confirms, it serves to modify verbs by specifying the location or condition required for stability and accuracy. It appears frequently in various contexts, including Wiki, News & Media, and Science, maintaining a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that the surface truly meets the level requirement, and consider using alternatives like "on a flat surface" or "on an even surface" for variety. By understanding its function, purpose, and common errors, you can effectively incorporate "on a level surface" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a flat plane

Replaces 'level' with 'flat', emphasizing the two-dimensional aspect of the surface.

on an even plane

Substitutes 'level' with 'even', highlighting the uniformity of the surface.

on a horizontal plane

Replaces 'level' with 'horizontal', specifying the orientation of the surface relative to the ground.

on an equal plane

Uses 'equal' instead of 'level', emphasizing balance and uniformity.

on a uniform surface

Substitutes 'level' with 'uniform', highlighting the consistent nature of the surface.

on an aligned surface

Changes 'level' to 'aligned', focusing on the correct positioning of the surface.

on a parallel surface

Similar to 'horizontal', emphasizing the consistent direction of the surface.

on a true plane

Replaces 'level' with 'true', focusing on precision and accuracy of the surface.

on a stable foundation

Shifts from the surface itself to the underlying support, implying the surface is even.

on a balanced platform

Changes 'surface' to 'platform', referring to a structure with an even surface.

FAQs

How can I use "on a level surface" in a sentence?

The phrase "on a level surface" describes a flat and even area where something is placed or an action occurs. For instance, "Place the camera "on a level surface" to ensure stable photos."

What are some alternatives to "on a level surface"?

You can use phrases like "on a flat surface", "on an even surface", or "on a horizontal plane" depending on the context.

When is it important to ensure something is "on a level surface"?

Ensuring something is "on a level surface" is important when stability is crucial, such as when setting up equipment, parking a vehicle, or performing experiments. It helps prevent accidents and ensures accurate results.

What tools can I use to check if something is "on a level surface"?

Tools like spirit levels, laser levels, and leveling apps on smartphones can be used to verify if a surface is level. These tools provide accurate measurements to ensure proper alignment and stability.