terra firma
/'terə'fə:mə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- Dry land; solid ground: "terra firma" refers to the solid, stable surface of the Earth, as opposed to water or air. It emphasizes firmness and stability underfoot.
Usage
- "Terra firma" is a formal or literary term, often used to express relief or a sense of security upon returning to solid ground after being at sea or in the air. It is typically used as a singular, uncountable noun.
Examples
- After the turbulent flight, the passengers were grateful to be back on terra firma.
- The sailors cheered when they finally spotted terra firma on the horizon.
- He felt a wave of relief as his feet touched terra firma after the long boat journey.
Advanced Usage
- "to be on terra firma": to be on solid ground.
- After weeks at sea, it felt wonderful to be on terra firma again.
- "to reach/regain terra firma": to arrive at or return to solid ground.
- The explorers were exhausted but happy when they regained terra firma.
Variants and Related Words
- Land (n): The more common and general term for the solid part of the Earth's surface.
- Ground (n): The solid surface of the Earth; the soil or earth.
- Solid ground (n phrase): A direct synonym emphasizing firmness.
Synonyms
- Dry land: Land as opposed to the sea.
- Solid ground: Firm, stable land.
- The mainland: The main area of land of a country or continent, as distinct from islands.
Antonyms
- Sea: The expanse of salt water.
- Water: The liquid that covers much of the Earth's surface.
- Air: The invisible gaseous substance surrounding the earth.
Related Idioms
- "to have one's feet on the ground / on terra firma": To be practical, sensible, or in a secure position.
- After all those speculative investments, it's good to have your finances back on terra firma. (This is an extended, metaphorical use of the term.)
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