Phrases & IdiomsPhrase guide
Common Ground
“Common ground” is an area of shared interest, belief, or opinion between people or groups, especially when they otherwise differ.
“Common ground” means shared interests, beliefs, or opinions that provide a basis for agreement.
Key details
Canonical Formcommon ground
Core Meaningshared interests, beliefs, or opinions between people or groups
Further guidance
History Boundary
Current dictionary-supported meaning is published without claiming an exact inventor, coinage date, or absolute first use.
Meaning
shared interests, beliefs, or opinions between people or groups
Usage Boundary
Common ground can be limited; finding one shared point does not imply broad agreement.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Common ground — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Current meaning of common ground