lay the groundwork/foundation

idiom

: to provide the right conditions
We are laying the groundwork/foundation for additional research.

Examples of lay the groundwork/foundation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
By weaving donor engagement throughout the organization, nonprofits build trust and lay the groundwork for transformational gifts. Karen Cochran, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 These developments are framed as administrative streamlining but lay the groundwork for mass surveillance. Nicole M. Bennett, The Conversation, 23 Apr. 2025 On Monday, Trump signed executive actions that could lay the groundwork for more tariffs on critical minerals — his latest target amid a growing trade war. Julia Mueller, The Hill, 17 Apr. 2025 So how does today’s petty trade disputes lay the groundwork for tomorrow’s diplomatic failures? Quartz Staff, Quartz, 8 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lay the groundwork/foundation

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lay the groundwork/foundation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lay%20the%20groundwork%2Ffoundation. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!