grounds
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the reasons or facts that justify an action or a decision.
the logical or legal basis for an action, belief, or argument. Often used with the preposition 'for'.
Simple“The company had strong grounds for firing the employee after he stole money.”
In context“The legal team argued that there were sufficient grounds for an appeal based on the discovery of new evidence.”
UsageUsually plural; often followed by 'for' + noun or 'to' + verb.
Synonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
the gardens and land that belong to a large house or building.
the area of land, including gardens and outbuildings, surrounding a large house or institution.
Simple“We spent the afternoon walking around the castle grounds.”
In context“Security personnel are required to patrol the hospital grounds every two hours to ensure the safety of the patients.”
UsageAlways plural in this sense.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
the small, solid pieces of coffee left after you make a drink.
the solid particles of coffee beans that remain after the brewing process.
Simple“Don't throw the coffee grounds in the sink because they might block the pipe.”
In context“Many gardeners use spent coffee grounds as a nitrogen-rich fertilizer for their acid-loving plants.”
UsageAlways plural in this sense.
Synonymssedimentdregs