Ground:
* More general and informal: It can refer to any surface of the earth, whether it's solid or soft, flat or uneven.
* Focus on the surface: It emphasizes the physical space where you stand or walk.
* Examples: "The ground was wet from the rain." "She sat on the ground." "The ground is covered in snow."
An area of land:
* More specific and formal: It implies a defined and potentially large portion of land.
* Focus on the expanse: It emphasizes the size and boundaries of the space.
* Examples: "This area of land is perfect for farming." "The government bought a large area of land for a new park." "They explored the entire area of land."
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the context and the specific meaning you want to convey.