common ground

American  

noun

1. a foundation of common interest or comprehension, as in a social relationship or a discussion.

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common ground British  

noun

1. an agreed basis, accepted by both or all parties, for identifying issues in an argument

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common ground Idioms  

1. Shared beliefs or interests, a foundation for mutual understanding. For example, The European Union is struggling to find common ground for establishing a single currency. [1920s]

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Etymology

Origin of common ground

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

common ground

I do wonder if one way of finding common ground will be a renewed focus on the idea of "place".

From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2026

Even in a divided nation, it seems, we can still find common ground on some big issues.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 1, 2026

The U.S. and Iran are currently embroiled in peace talks as both countries try to find enough common ground to permanently end the war.

From Barron's ● Jun. 25, 2026

He suggested there could be common ground, pointing to "historical injustices" surrounding the British Steel pension scheme, which he said his party would "like to help you sort out".

From BBC ● Jun. 9, 2026

But almost instantly they reach a common ground.

From "The Tipping Point" by Malcolm Gladwell