unstable ground (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

"Unstable ground" is a noun phrase.

Phonetic Transcription

/ʌnˈsteɪbəl ɡraʊnd/

Meaning and Usage

The term "unstable ground" refers to a surface or terrain that lacks firmness, is subject to shifts, or collapses easily. In English language usage, it is often employed in contexts concerning construction, geology, natural disasters such as landslides, or engineering. The phrase is used frequently in both spoken and written contexts, particularly in discussions about safety, land evaluation, and environmental science.

Example Sentences: 1. We cannot build the foundation here because of the unstable ground. - (No podemos construir la base aquí debido al terreno inestable.)

1. The authorities warned residents about the dangers of walking on unstable ground during the rain.

2. (Las autoridades advirtieron a los residentes sobre los peligros de caminar en terreno inestable durante la lluvia.)

3. The company decided to avoid the site due to reports of unstable ground.

4. (La empresa decidió evitar el sitio debido a los informes de terreno inestable.)

Idiomatic Expressions

While "unstable ground" does not typically appear in idiomatic expressions, the concept of instability can feature in various phrases that symbolize uncertainty or unpredictability. Here are a few examples:

1. On shaky ground: This expression refers to a situation that is precarious or unreliable.
2. Example: His argument is on shaky ground after the recent findings.

3. (Su argumento está en terreno inestable tras los hallazgos recientes.)

4. Walking on thin ice: This idiom suggests being in a risky or dangerous situation.

5. Example: The team is walking on thin ice with their grading after the unexpected outcomes.

6. (El equipo está caminando sobre hielo delgado con su calificación después de los resultados inesperados.)

7. Build on sand: This metaphor implies creating something that is unlikely to last due to its weak foundation.

8. Example: Relying on that plan is like building on sand; it's bound to fail.

9. (Confiar en ese plan es como construir sobre arena; está destinado a fracasar.)

10. In deep water: This means being in a difficult situation.

11. Example: After the budget cuts, the project manager found himself in deep water.
12. (Después de los recortes de presupuesto, el gerente del proyecto se encontró en aguas profundas.)

Etymology

The word "unstable" originates from the Latin word "instabilis," which means "unsteady." The word "ground" comes from the Old English "grund," meaning "the bottom of a body of water, soil, or land." Together, they describe a geographic area that is not solid or reliable.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Unreliable terrain - Precarious ground - Shaky foundations

Antonyms: - Stable ground - Firm terrain - Solid ground