on grounds of fairness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on grounds of fairness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when justifying a decision or action based on the principle of fairness or equity. Example: "The committee decided to grant the extension on grounds of fairness, considering the extenuating circumstances faced by the applicants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

On grounds of fairness, governments usually seek to share out those rents by taxing them.

The Economist

Proponents of progressive taxation made a clear case that if the broad population was to sacrifice for the war effort, then on grounds of fairness the wealthy should make a financial sacrifice to pay for the war.

The New York Times

The CBI opposes the minimum wage, although CBI leaders admit that most of their members probably welcome it on grounds of fairness and in order to protect themselves against low labour-cost competition.

The Economist

Mr. Siegel told the judge, Michael D. Sarner, an assistant deputy commissioner, that he objected on grounds of fairness, though he had not researched whether Mr. Green had the right to call Officer Delacruz without notice.

The New York Times

On grounds of fairness, he might now agree to retain the 10% tax rate on earnings and pensions for the benefit of the real poor, who at present face tax increases of up to £2 a week from April.

The Guardian - Business

The current chancellor of the exchequer, George Osborne, raised that to as much as £90,000 a year for those who have lived in Britain for 17 of the past 20 years.Mr Miliband now wants to do away with it altogether, mainly on grounds of fairness.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"To single out Semenya on the grounds of fairness and equity is simply ludicrous.

The Guardian - Sport

Tax competition in Europe is not just bad on the grounds of fairness.

The Guardian

While that would not significantly increase the available blood supply, many experts say the ban should be lifted on the grounds of fairness and scientific consistency.

The New York Times - Health

"Political commentators have declared the decision to be unfair and even the prime minister has called for the Greens to be included in the debates on the grounds of fairness.

The Guardian

The government has previously justified the welfare cap on the grounds of "fairness" because in principle no jobless household should get more in benefit income than the £26,000 earned by the average working family.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on grounds of fairness", ensure that the specific aspect of fairness is clear to the audience. This can involve stating whose fairness is being considered or what standards are being applied.

Common error

Avoid using "on grounds of fairness" without providing context. For example, do not assume everyone understands what constitutes fairness in a specific situation. Always clarify the principle of fairness being invoked to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on grounds of fairness" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the reason or justification for an action or decision. It introduces the concept of fairness as the basis for the action, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on grounds of fairness" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that serves as a justification for actions or decisions based on equitable considerations. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the aspects of fairness being considered. Although similar phrases like "based on principles of equity" exist, "on grounds of fairness" maintains its unique emphasis on justification. Given its prevalence in authoritative sources, it remains a reliable choice for conveying equitable reasoning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on principles of equity

Emphasizes the underlying principles guiding the fairness, focusing on equity.

for reasons of impartiality

Highlights the lack of bias as the reason for the action, prioritizing impartiality.

in the interest of justice

Focuses on achieving a just outcome, emphasizing the pursuit of justice.

on the basis of equitable treatment

Stresses the importance of treating everyone equally, pointing to equitable treatment.

with a view to ensuring fairness

Highlights the intention to create a fair situation or outcome, with a view to fairness.

due to considerations of justice

Emphasizes justice as the primary driver of the decision, stressing considerations.

in the name of fair play

Evokes the concept of sportsmanship and following the rules, in the name of fair play.

premised on the ideal of equity

Highlights that the base on which decision is built on, is the ideal of equity.

to uphold the standards of fairness

Focuses on maintaining established fairness standards, upholding standards.

pursuant to standards of equity

Highlights that the decision is in accordance with equity standards, pursuant to standards.

FAQs

How can I use "on grounds of fairness" in a sentence?

You can use "on grounds of fairness" to justify a decision based on equitable considerations. For instance, "The judge dismissed the case "on grounds of fairness", citing a lack of due process."

What phrases are similar to "on grounds of fairness"?

Similar phrases include "based on principles of equity", "in the interest of justice", or "for reasons of impartiality". These alternatives emphasize different aspects of equitable decision-making.

Is it better to say "on grounds of fairness" or "due to fairness"?

"On grounds of fairness" is typically used to justify a decision or action, whereas "due to fairness" explains a result or situation. The phrase "on grounds of fairness" emphasizes the justification, while "due to fairness" highlights the cause.

What is the difference between "fairness" and "equity" in relation to the phrase "on grounds of fairness"?

"Fairness" generally means treating everyone the same, while "equity" means providing different levels of support to ensure equal outcomes. When using "on grounds of fairness", consider whether you are aiming for equal treatment or equitable outcomes.