stood their ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stood their ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone maintains their position or beliefs despite opposition or pressure. Example: "During the debate, the candidates stood their ground on their policies, refusing to back down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They stood their ground".

The New York Times

But the bishops stood their ground.

The Economist

The two sisters stood their ground.

The New York Times

The animals stood their ground.

The New York Times - Travel

These two marines stood their ground.

The Guardian

But the roaches stood their ground.

The New Yorker

However, Gove and other leave campaigners stood their ground.

The Guardian

(To their credit, festival organizers stood their ground, and several Pakistani authors did speak).

The New York Times

"It was important to me that the actors stood their ground at times," Mr. Lowery said.

The New York Times

Although Sir Henry Clinton, who had replaced Howe, struck back hard, the Americans stood their ground.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Eager to flex their muscles, the newly formed unions stood their ground.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stood their ground" to vividly describe situations where individuals or groups actively resist pressure or opposition, demonstrating resilience and determination. Ensure the context clearly supports the image of a firm, unwavering stance.

Common error

Avoid using "stood their ground" to describe situations where individuals simply remain in place without actively resisting or defending a position. This phrase implies active resistance, not passive presence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stood their ground" functions as an idiomatic expression, signifying a firm and resolute defense of one's position, beliefs, or territory. It implies active resistance against opposition, as seen in Ludwig's examples from news articles and encyclopedias.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

13%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stood their ground" is a grammatically sound and frequently used idiomatic expression that describes a firm and unwavering defense of one's position. Ludwig AI confirms its broad acceptance and applicability across various contexts, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias, and wikis. It is often used to highlight resilience and resistance against opposition. When using the phrase, ensure that the context reflects active resistance rather than passive presence. Alternatives such as "held their position" or "remained steadfast" can offer subtle differences in meaning, but ultimately convey a similar sense of determination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

held their position

Focuses on maintaining a physical or metaphorical placement against opposition.

stood firm

Similar to "held firm" but emphasizes a physical or metaphorical stability.

held firm

A shorter and more direct way of saying someone didn't change their position.

remained steadfast

Emphasizes unwavering commitment and resistance to change or pressure.

stuck to their guns

An idiomatic expression meaning to maintain one's position despite opposition.

defended their stance

Highlights the act of protecting an opinion or belief from challenge.

wouldn't budge

Indicates a stubborn refusal to compromise or move from a position.

refused to yield

Stresses the unwillingness to give in or surrender despite difficulties.

stayed resolute

Implies a firm and unwavering decision to not be moved.

maintained their resolve

Underscores the strength of will and determination in the face of adversity.

FAQs

How can I use "stood their ground" in a sentence?

You can use "stood their ground" to describe a situation where someone or a group of people defended their position against opposition. For example: "The protesters "stood their ground" against the police."

What are some alternatives to "stood their ground"?

Alternatives include phrases like "held their position", "remained steadfast", or "defended their stance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "stand their ground" instead of "stood their ground"?

The correct tense depends on the context. "Stand their ground" is present tense, while "stood their ground" is past tense. Use "stood" when referring to a past event: "They "stood their ground" during the negotiation."

What's the difference between "stood their ground" and "held their own"?

"Stood their ground" emphasizes resistance and defense of a position, while "held their own" implies managing to compete or survive in a difficult situation. You "stood your ground" by refusing to back down, you "held your own" by successfully competing with a rival.