When it comes to the difference between short circuit and a ground circuit, we can discuss from the following two aspects:

Short circuit which can be understood as the two sides of an electrical appliance or power supply are directly connected by wires;

Ground circuit has a variety of conditions. First is protective ground: Connecting the metal shell and the parts that may be injured by leakage of electricity to the earth. Secondly, be used to filter or eliminate interference. This is more common in switching mode power supplies. Thirdly, in electronic circuits, it is customary to call the common (com) of the power supply as ground. However, it does not necessary to be connected with the earth.