spell out the grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spell out the grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to clarify or explain the reasons or basis for a decision or opinion. Example: "Before we proceed, could you please spell out the grounds for your recommendation?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The large, painted letters that overlay this mildly agitated ground mostly spell out the names of bands (Joy Division) and their songs ("Atmosphere") plus phrases evocative of time's passage (decades, dawn fades).

Los Angeles Times

It represents a great philosopher's attempt to spell out the form and content of a type of religion that would be grounded in moral reason and would meet the needs of ethical life.

Stanford University

When he is pressed to spell out the specifics of his approach, he emphasizes the importance of respecting all views and of working toward a common ground.

The New York Times

So spell out the two ways.

Yale University

Labels need to spell out the risks.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Tap the screen to spell out the dog's name.

WikiHow

The words: "Will you marry me?" were spelled out on the ground in Gladstone Park, Dollis Hill, north-west London, with what were believed to have been candles.

The Guardian

He spells out the reasons methodically.

The Guardian - Film

A thorough study of alternative implementation structures is carried out whilst spelling out the frequency-adaptive algorithm in each case.

Electric Power Systems Research

Congress even spelled out the process.

HuffPost

The intermediaries enter into a contract with the fund company that spells out the ground rules for submitting orders -- including, of course, the requirement that each order, regardless of how late in the day it reaches the fund company, was actually received from the customer before the 4 p.m. deadline set by federal law.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for clarification, use "spell out the grounds" to encourage a comprehensive explanation, especially when the initial reasons are vague or incomplete.

Common error

Avoid assuming that everyone understands the underlying reasons. Explicitly request that the reasons be "spelled out" to ensure clarity and prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spell out the grounds" functions as a request for clarification or justification. It's used to ask someone to elaborate on the reasons or basis for a particular decision, action, or belief.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spell out the grounds" is a request for a thorough explanation of the reasons or basis behind a decision or action. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and serves to elicit clarity. While relatively rare in usage, it is suitable for various contexts, including academic, news, and scientific discussions. Alternatives like "clarify the reasons" or "elaborate on the basis" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. When using this phrase, ensure you're seeking a detailed understanding and avoid assuming shared knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify the reasons

Focuses on making the reasons understandable.

elaborate on the basis

Emphasizes providing more details about the foundation or rationale.

detail the justification

Stresses providing a full account of why something is right or reasonable.

explain the rationale

Highlights the explanation of the underlying principles.

specify the reasons

Focuses on being precise and exact about the reasons.

outline the grounds

Suggests providing a summary of the main reasons.

present the case

Implies making a formal argument with supporting evidence.

set forth the reasons

Indicates a formal and structured presentation of the reasons.

articulate the reasons

Emphasizes expressing the reasons clearly and effectively.

give a detailed account

Suggests providing a thorough and comprehensive explanation.

FAQs

What does "spell out the grounds" mean?

It means to explain the reasons or basis for something in a clear and detailed way, leaving no room for ambiguity.

How can I use "spell out the grounds" in a sentence?

You can use it when asking someone to clarify their reasoning, such as, "Could you please "spell out the grounds" for your decision?"

What can I say instead of "spell out the grounds"?

You can use alternatives like "clarify the reasons", "elaborate on the basis", or "detail the justification".

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "spell out the grounds"?

It's appropriate in situations where you need a clear and thorough explanation of someone's reasons, especially when the situation is formal or complex.