Synonyms of groundwork

groundwork

noun

ˈgrau̇nd-ˌwərk 

as in foundation

an immaterial thing upon which something else rests

they had collectively laid the groundwork for a new kind of art

Synonyms & Similar Words

• foundation
• basis
• cornerstone
• bedrock
• ground
• justification
• footing
• base
• root
• framework
• underpinning
• theory
• premise
• keystone
• support
• core
• warp
• focus
• infrastructure
• essence
• bed
• warp and woof
• bottom
• assumption
• shore
• rationale
• thesis
• backbone
• substratum
• mount
• center
• anchorage
• kernel
• prop
• heart
• presumption
• brace
• substructure
• stay
• warrant
• supposition
• nucleus
• hub
• seat
• bulwark
• buttress
• presupposition
• soul
• touchstone
• eye
• quintessence

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of groundwork

Each of these decisions laid the groundwork for the war on Iran today, one that started without a clear strategy on the arrogant expectation of a quick victory. — Alexander Langlois, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Aug. 2026

The president and his allies have spent months laying the groundwork for potential fraud claims relating to the 2026 midterm elections. — Christian Datoc, The Washington Examiner, 21 Aug. 2026

That session laid the groundwork for what ultimately became the 2015 nuclear pact. — Vivian Salama, The Atlantic, 21 Aug. 2026

For agencies, these periods allow teams to think more freely and uncover where the business could improve so that the groundwork for a stronger second half of the year can take shape. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026