Grounds: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the underlying factors or basis for a decision, often in a legal or formal context.

• The court dismissed the case on the grounds of insufficient evidence.
• She appealed the decision on the grounds of discrimination.

Refers to the explanation or cause behind something happening or someone’s actions, used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The reason for the delay was the heavy traffic.
• Can you give me a reason why you missed the meeting?

Refers to the underlying support or foundation for an argument, theory, or process, often in an academic or scientific context.

• The study is conducted on the basis of previous research.
• There is no scientific basis for your claims.

Used when explaining the rationale or reasoning behind a specific action or decision, often implying a need to defend or validate it.

• He provided a lengthy justification for his actions.
• The manager demanded a justification for the budget increase.

Used to refer to land around a building or structure, often with gardens or space for activities.

• The school grounds are well-maintained
• We can hold the event on the hospital grounds

Refers to the physical features of a piece of land, such as its elevation, slope, and type of ground, often used in the context of outdoor activities or geography.

• The terrain here is quite rugged and difficult to navigate
• The military needs to train in different types of terrain

Used to talk about a specific place or region, often one that is part of a larger place or known for specific characteristics.

• This area is known for its beautiful parks
• They live in a rural area

Used when pointing out a specific spot or place, often with regard to its suitability or convenience for a particular purpose.

• This location is perfect for a new cafe
• We need to find a better location for the meeting

Used primarily to describe small particles that result from grinding substances like coffee beans or spices. Can also refer to sediment at the bottom of a liquid.

• There were coffee grounds at the bottom of his cup.
• The spice grinder left fine grounds of nutmeg on the counter.

Implies reducing something to powder or very small pieces using friction. Often used in cooking and industrial settings.

• Please grind some fresh pepper for the salad.
• He used a machine to grind the wheat into flour.

Refers to breaking something into smaller pieces or more manageable parts through force, often by pressing. Can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

• She crushed the garlic with the flat of her knife.
• He felt his dreams were crushed when he didn't get the job.

Means to crush or grind something into a fine powder or small fragments, usually with a lot of force. Often has a more intense connotation compared to 'grind'.

• The blender can pulverize the nuts in seconds.
• The demolition crew pulverized the old building.