on firm ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on firm ground" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something has a solid basis or foundation. For example, "I feel more confident now that I am on firm ground with my understanding of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As for the desserts (no more lentils!) I am on firm ground here.

The New York Times

While the kitchen is on firm ground most of the time, Komodo's desserts have been tentative.

The New York Times - Food

His one defeat this season was on firm ground at Newbury where he was third.

The Guardian - Sport

It was one in which St. John's stood on firm ground, year in, year out.

The New York Times - Sports

It only took one visit to Peters for Trott to know that he could put him on firm ground again.

Independent

Now nothing is on firm ground.

The New York Times - Books

He could never run on firm ground.

The Guardian - Sport

Regarding western Europe, Judt stands on firm ground.

The Guardian - Books

But that's the thing: we're not standing on firm ground.

The New Yorker

On this, the C.D.C. and the Administration are on firm ground.

The New Yorker

While there has been some good news, the economy isn't really on firm ground.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on firm ground" to convey a sense of confidence or security, especially when discussing arguments, decisions, or progress.

Common error

Avoid using "on firm ground" in literal contexts unless you're aiming for a humorous or metaphorical effect. The phrase is generally reserved for abstract situations where a sense of stability or security is being conveyed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on firm ground" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the state or condition of something. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in written English. It indicates a state of stability, security, or having a solid foundation for an action or belief.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on firm ground" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating stability, security, and a solid foundation. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. Its purpose is to convey confidence and assurance. While there are numerous synonyms like "on solid footing" or "on stable ground", "on firm ground" remains a favored choice for expressing a sense of reliability and reduced risk.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on solid footing

Indicates a stable and secure position or situation.

on a firm foundation

Similar to the original, but places greater emphasis on the underlying structure.

on stable ground

Highlights the aspect of stability and lack of risk.

on safe ground

Emphasizes the security and lack of danger in a situation.

on terra firma

A more literal expression, referring to being on solid land, often after a period of uncertainty.

on unshakeable ground

Emphasizes the strength and resilience of the foundation.

well-supported

Focuses on having adequate backing or evidence.

on bedrock

A metaphor for the strongest, most fundamental level of support.

on a sound basis

Refers to having a reliable and well-reasoned foundation.

in a secure position

Highlights the safety and stability of one's standing.

FAQs

How can I use "on firm ground" in a sentence?

You can use "on firm ground" to indicate a position of stability or confidence, for example: "After reviewing the data, I feel that our conclusions are "on firm ground"."

What does it mean to be "on firm ground"?

Being "on firm ground" means being in a secure, stable, or well-supported position, either literally or figuratively. It implies a lack of risk or uncertainty.

Which is correct, "on firm ground" or "on solid ground"?

Both "on firm ground" and "on solid ground" are correct and have similar meanings. The choice between them often depends on personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What are some alternatives to saying someone is "on firm ground"?

Alternatives include "on solid footing", "on stable ground", or "on safe ground" depending on the specific context.