Solid Ground – Meaning and Examples
Imagine walking on shaky, unstable sand versus standing firmly on rock. When a situation, plan, or argument is based on firm, reliable facts or conditions, we say it is on solid ground. This idiom is highly useful for discussing security, stability, and confidence in professional and political contexts.
What Does “Solid Ground” Mean?
The idiom “solid ground” refers to a secure, stable, or well-established position or foundation. It means the basis of an argument, a business plan, or a person’s financial situation is reliable and not likely to collapse or be proven wrong. The phrase implies certainty and safety, contrasting with “shaky ground” or “thin ice.”
When to Use It
You can use solid ground when discussing stability in finances, research, or relationships.
- Finance: After paying off their debts, the family finally felt they were on solid ground financially.
- Arguments/Facts: The lawyer’s opening statement was based on irrefutable facts and stood on solid ground.
- Recovery/Health: Completing the rehabilitation program put him back on solid ground.
This phrase is positive and is used in formal, business, and daily discussions.
Example Sentences
- The company’s investment strategy is cautious, but it ensures we stay on solid ground.
- We can only proceed with the experiment once our initial hypothesis is on solid ground.
- Since they communicated openly, their marriage was on solid ground even during difficulties.
- I feel much more comfortable discussing the report now that the numbers are on solid ground.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Should we launch the new product next month?”
Jamie: “Not yet. We need a bit more market research to be on truly solid ground.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While “solid ground” literally means firm earth, it is almost always used in its figurative sense of stability, not just for standing on the floor.
❌ Don’t: “I was standing on solid ground when I tied my shoes.” (This is incorrect. Use “the floor” or “the ground.”)
✅ Do: “The negotiation team felt they were on solid ground because they had a signed contract.” (This means they had a reliable basis for their claim.)
Practice Tip
Think of a personal goal you’ve achieved (like learning a new skill). Write one sentence saying you feel you are now on solid ground with that ability.
Final Note
Using solid ground effectively conveys confidence and stability. Practice this phrase to describe any well-founded position or secure foundation!
