working on the ground

USAGE SUMMARY

"working on the ground" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe an action or scenario where someone is actively doing something in a physical location, particularly in a hands-on capacity. For example: "The charity volunteers are working on the ground to provide essential resources to those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She was granted access to a Cusco prison for one month, working on the ground and meeting inmates.

Forbes

We are working on the ground with the emergency services".

The Guardian

Especially for those who have been working on the ground.

The Guardian

There are also international charities working on the ground in the delta using local employees.

The New York Times

We report from Ethiopia on the villagisation scheme that isn't working on the ground.

The Guardian

It scarcely takes into account needs articulated by decision makers working "on the ground".

Nature

Two persons who were apparently working on the ground near the crash site were injured.

The New York Times

"Instead of waiting for them to negotiate some grand bargain, we have to keep working on the ground," she said.

The New York Times

"We don't know the reason yet but it has been an observation noted by the people working on the ground.

The Guardian

Other human rights campaigners document issues, or try to change the situation without working on the ground.

The Guardian

"It's part of a TV-ad buy, or a number of staff working on the ground in key battleground states".

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to emphasize practical experience and direct involvement in a specific area, use "working on the ground". For example, instead of saying "they are managing the project", consider "they are working on the ground to implement the project effectively".

Common error

Avoid using "working on the ground" as a generic phrase without clarifying the specific actions or contributions being made. Provide context to highlight what specific tasks are being performed. For example, instead of saying "the team is working on the ground", specify "the team is working on the ground, distributing supplies and providing medical assistance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working on the ground" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. Ludwig examples show it typically modifies verbs, describing the manner or location in which an action is performed, particularly emphasizing hands-on involvement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

35%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "working on the ground" is a versatile prepositional phrase that indicates direct and practical involvement in a specific location or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. While generally appropriate, providing specific details about the actual tasks being performed is a best practice to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "operating in the field" or "engaged in direct action" can enhance clarity and variety in writing. The frequent occurrence of the expression across authoritative sources like The Guardian, BBC, and The New York Times reinforces its reliability and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

involved in hands-on work

This phrase emphasizes the practical nature of the work and the direct physical involvement.

operating in the field

This alternative focuses on the practical, hands-on aspect of the work being done, emphasizing the direct involvement in a specific area.

implementing on site

This option focuses on the practical application of plans or strategies at a particular location.

functioning locally

This phrase underscores the localized nature of the work and its impact on a specific community or area.

engaged in direct action

This option highlights the active and immediate involvement in addressing a specific issue or situation.

performing on location

This option highlights the work being done in a real-world setting, often away from a central office or headquarters.

executing in the area

This phrase stresses the carrying out of tasks or projects within a specific geographical location.

active in the trenches

This alternative evokes a sense of being deeply involved in the most challenging aspects of a situation.

laboring at the scene

This alternative emphasizes the effort and hard work involved in dealing with a situation directly.

in action on the premises

This phrase emphasizes the ongoing activity and presence of individuals or teams directly involved in a particular setting.

FAQs

What does "working on the ground" mean?

The phrase "working on the ground" typically means being actively involved in practical tasks in a specific location, often implying hands-on involvement and direct interaction with the environment or people there.

How can I use "working on the ground" in a sentence?

You can use "working on the ground" to describe efforts or activities. For example: "The volunteers are "operating in the field" to provide assistance to the community" or "The researchers are "engaged in direct action" to collect data".

What are some alternatives to "working on the ground"?

Alternatives to "working on the ground" include "involved in hands-on work", "active in the trenches", or "implementing on site". These phrases can add variety to your writing while conveying a similar meaning.

Is "working on the ground" formal or informal?

The phrase "working on the ground" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its suitability depends on the specific context and audience, but it's generally appropriate for most professional communications.