middle ground

American  

noun

1. an intermediate position, area, or recourse between two opposites or extremes; a halfway or neutral standpoint.

2. middle distance.

3. Nautical. a length of comparatively shallow water having channels on both sides.

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middle ground British  

noun

1. another term for middle distance See middle-distance

2. a position of compromise between two opposing views, parties, etc

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Etymology

Origin of middle ground

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

If existing global trading rules are insufficient for a challenge of this magnitude, everyone from policymakers to corporate executives has to ask what the middle ground actually looks like.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

Unless both sides can make a giant leap into an unexplored middle ground of compromise, it is hard to see a deal being made.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

Terahertz light has long been considered promising for imaging because it occupies a useful middle ground.

From Science Daily • Mar. 17, 2026

And that middle ground is where risk quietly disappears.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 5, 2026

“If you feel like occupying the middle ground at the Third Battle of Manassas. If I were you, I’d keep well out of it.”

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly