On the grounds that
Example: She refused to go on the grounds that she was tired.
Definition
"On the grounds that" is a phrase used to indicate the reason or justification for an action or decision, often implying a formal or official basis. For example, in the sentence 'She refused to go on the grounds that she was tired,' it explains the cause of refusal.
Etymology
The phrase "on the grounds that" originates from the noun 'grounds,' meaning reasons or basis for something, combined with the prepositional phrase 'on the,' which situates the reason as a foundation. 'Grounds' in this context dates back to the 16th century, referring metaphorically to the basis or foundation of an argument or claim.
Learn to use this expression actively
"On the grounds that" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (B2) - set 1", containing 103 commonly used expressions.
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