solid ground
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. The firm, dry surface of the earth; land as opposed to water or air. This refers to the solid, stable part of the Earth's crust that we walk and build upon. 2. (Figurative) A position of certainty, safety, or stability. This meaning extends the physical concept to describe a state of being secure, well-founded, or on a firm basis.
Usage and Examples
Literal Meaning (Earth's Surface):
- After weeks at sea, the sailors were relieved to feel solid ground beneath their feet.
- The earthquake caused the solid ground to liquefy in some areas.
- He slipped on the ice but was glad to find solid ground a few steps away.
Figurative Meaning (Certainty/Stability):
- The new scientific data put the theory on solid ground.
- Before making the investment, she wanted to be on solid ground financially.
- His argument was on shaky ground until he cited the official report, which put it back on solid ground.
Advanced Usage
- "to be on solid ground": To be in a position that is secure, defensible, or based on reliable facts.
- Legally, the company is on solid ground with its new policy.
- "to find solid ground": To reach a state of stability or certainty after a period of instability or confusion.
- After the chaotic merger, it took months for the team to find solid ground again.
Variants and Related Words
- Ground (n): The solid surface of the earth. (e.g., )
- Terra firma (n): A Latin term used in English meaning "solid earth," often used humorously or formally for .
- Land (n): The part of the earth's surface that is not covered by water. (e.g., )
- Solid (adj): Firm and stable in shape; not liquid or fluid. (e.g., )
Synonyms
- Terra firma
- Dry land
- Earth
- Land
- Stable footing (figurative)
Antonyms
- Water
- Sea
- Air
- Shaky ground (figurative)
- Unstable footing (figurative)
Related Idioms and Phrases
- "On firm ground": Synonymous with "on solid ground," meaning to be in a secure or justifiable position.
- "Break new ground": To do something innovative or pioneering.
- This research breaks new ground in cancer treatment.
- "Common ground": A basis of mutual agreement or shared interest.
- Despite their differences, they found common ground on environmental issues.
Noun
- the solid part of the earth's surface
- the plane turned away from the sea and moved back over land
- the earth shook for several minutes
- he dropped the logs on the ground