on human grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'on human grounds' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to an idea or a principle that is based on sympathy or understanding. For example: "The decision was made on human grounds, taking into account the suffering of the victims."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

If we do not help these children, we are essentially condemning them to a lifetime of disability, unemployment and, for many, institutionalization. On human grounds, this is tragic.

The New York Times

Horses were subjected to euthanasia on human grounds for non-dental reasons.

BMC Veterinary Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

They may tell pollsters they're against torture on human rights grounds, on turnabout grounds, on pragmatic grounds, but in our heart of hearts, Americans (in the Rove/Cheney/Gonzales/Yoo view) believe that torture works, and that waterboarding is too good for terrorists.

Huffington Post

The bulk of the officer and noncommissioned officer corps will support the new policy because it is the right thing to do, on both legal and human grounds.

The New York Times

It is possible to appeal on human rights grounds together with another right of appeal, if there is one.

The Guardian

Sweden refused on human rights grounds to extradite him Vladimir Gusinsky Former media tycoon, currently in Israel.

The Guardian

In response, Occupy London said it would fight the move on human rights grounds.

Independent

In 2007, a group of fishers challenged a domestic fishing law on human rights grounds, and won.

The Guardian

In practise, the systematic expulsion of migrants to war zones is opposed by French courts on human rights grounds.

Independent

"Matters such as representations on human rights grounds should, in future, be considered by the high court rather than the home secretary.

The Guardian

Under section 65 of Ripa the IPT is the "only appropriate tribunal" for a legal challenge on human rights grounds to the police's conduct of intrusive surveillance.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "on human grounds" with clear explanations of the specific human values or principles at play. For example: 'The policy was revised on human grounds, recognizing the inherent dignity of every individual regardless of their socioeconomic status.'

Common error

Don't use "on human grounds" when the primary justification for a decision rests on laws, regulations, or established legal precedent. "On legal grounds" is appropriate when the justification is based on existing laws, whereas "on human grounds" reflects more general moral or ethical reasons.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on human grounds" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause, specifying the basis or justification for an action, decision, or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it emphasizes reasons rooted in empathy and ethics.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on human grounds" is used to provide an ethical or compassionate justification for a decision or action. While grammatically correct, its frequency is relatively rare, appearing mostly in news and media contexts. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it is often employed when the rationale stems from empathy, the inherent value of human life, or ethical considerations rather than legal or procedural justifications. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise and effective communication in discussions involving morality and human welfare.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on compassionate grounds

Emphasizes the feeling of sympathy and desire to alleviate suffering.

for humanitarian reasons

Highlights the motive of improving human welfare.

based on human decency

Stresses moral principles and ethical considerations.

out of human kindness

Underscores the motivation of goodwill and benevolence.

from a human perspective

Focuses on considering a situation from a human-centered viewpoint.

in the interest of humanity

Highlights the broader benefit to all people.

on humane grounds

Similar, but emphasizes the treatment of individuals with care and respect.

considering human welfare

Explicitly mentions the well-being of people as the basis.

with human considerations

Broadly includes any factor relating to human needs or values.

taking a moral stance

Highlights the ethical position taken, rather than directly human focus.

FAQs

How can I use "on human grounds" in a sentence?

You can use "on human grounds" to justify a decision or action based on ethical or compassionate reasons. For example: "The prisoner was released "on human grounds" due to his deteriorating health and advanced age."

What is a similar phrase to "on human grounds"?

Alternatives to "on human grounds" include "on compassionate grounds", "for humanitarian reasons", or "based on human decency". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say 'on humane grounds' instead of "on human grounds"?

While similar, "on humane grounds" typically emphasizes the kind and compassionate treatment of individuals, whereas "on human grounds" focuses more broadly on moral or ethical principles relating to humanity.

What is the difference between "on human grounds" and 'on legal grounds'?

"On human grounds" refers to reasons based on empathy, ethics, or the inherent value of human life. 'On legal grounds' refers to justifications based on existing laws and regulations. For example, one might oppose a policy "on human grounds" because it is cruel, but still acknowledge that it is permissible 'on legal grounds'.