on the same playing field

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the same playing field" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to communicate that two or more parties are treated in the same way and have equal opportunities. For example, "This new policy ensures that all students are on the same playing field when it comes to their education."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's important for scientists to adopt an open-mindset and one that truly values everything on the same playing field.

Duke University

Contrast this with Pacquiao's pre-fight medical situation, and one can question whether or not the two fighters were competing on the same playing field.

HuffPost

One, it puts everybody on the same playing field.

Yale University

"Let's play on the same playing field for once".

The New Yorker

"All I want is to be on the same playing field," he said.

The New York Times

In theory, it puts outsider and insider art on the same playing field.

The New York Times - Arts

Immediately you and your classmates are not on the same playing field anymore.

The New York Times

It was a remarkable thing to do, because it put everybody on the same playing field.

The New York Times

"As good operators, we don't like them to be on the same playing field as us".

The New York Times

"We want these kids to be all on the same playing field.

The New York Times - Sports

"The public policy is to keep everybody honest and keep everybody on the same playing field," Mr. Castellanos said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advocating for fairness or equality, use "on the same playing field" to emphasize the need for equal opportunities and treatment. For example, "The new regulations aim to put all businesses "on the same playing field"".

Common error

Avoid using "on the same playing field" when comparing completely unrelated concepts. The phrase implies a competition or comparison within a defined domain. For example, saying that classical music and modern pop are "on the same playing field" is illogical, unless discussing a specific aspect like cultural impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the same playing field" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb or noun, indicating a state of equality or fairness. It asserts that individuals or entities are subject to the same rules, opportunities, and conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct and commonly employed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

28%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the same playing field" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to advocate for equality and fairness. As Ludwig AI indicates, it suggests that everyone involved has equal opportunities and is subject to the same rules. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, the phrase emphasizes the importance of equitable treatment in various situations. While versatile, it is crucial to use it in contexts where a comparison or competition exists, ensuring that the situation warrants the implication of equality. Alternatives such as "on equal footing" or "a level playing field" offer similar meanings and can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on equal footing

Focuses on the equality of status or treatment.

on a level playing field

Emphasizes the fairness and lack of advantages for any participant.

with equal opportunities

Highlights the presence of equivalent chances for success.

on even terms

Indicates a state of balance and equivalence between parties.

under the same rules

Stresses that everyone is subject to the same regulations.

on comparable terms

Suggests that the conditions or provisions are similar for all involved.

with no advantages

Focuses on the absence of preferential treatment or special privileges.

in a fair competition

Highlights the impartiality and justice of the contest.

with a fair chance

Emphasizes the equitable possibility of success for each participant.

on a common ground

Indicates a shared understanding and basic agreement between different parties.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the same playing field" to indicate that everyone has an equal opportunity or is subject to the same rules. For example: "We need to ensure that all students are "on the same playing field" regardless of their background."

What's a similar phrase to "on the same playing field"?

Alternatives to "on the same playing field" include "on equal footing", "on a level playing field", and "with equal opportunities".

Is it always appropriate to use "on the same playing field"?

While widely applicable, "on the same playing field" is most suitable when discussing situations involving competition, comparison, or fairness. Ensure the context warrants the implication of equality or equal opportunity.

What does it mean for everyone to be "on the same playing field"?

When everyone is "on the same playing field", it means they have equal opportunities, face the same rules, and are not unfairly advantaged or disadvantaged compared to others in a particular situation.