as a groundwork for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a groundwork for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a foundational element or basis for something that follows, such as a project, argument, or theory. Example: "The research conducted in this study serves as a groundwork for future investigations into the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Finally, a simple scheme for successful implementation of PT activity is provided to serve as a groundwork for educators.

Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning

This system is related to the metabolic control analysis (MCA) [ 10, 22- 26], which also served as a groundwork for linear and non-linear perturbation studies of Camacho et al. [ 27] and Vance et al. [ 28].

BMC Systems Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Studies such as these provide a groundwork for identifying chemicals and chemical methodologies that can specifically target aberrant retinal vascularization, which affects the sight of millions of people worldwide.

Cell Communication and Signaling

COMMENT FROM JIM: Seems as if he's laying a groundwork for highlighting Congressional inaction.

The New Yorker

The emerging theme is of meiosis as a common groundwork for coordinating multifaceted processes of oocyte differentiation.

Developmental Biology

Planning a family ski trip can be as daunting as laying the groundwork for a Himalayan expedition.

The New York Times - Travel

The chapter begins with the basic building blocks of all complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuits, and then continues by making sense of a typical schematic drawing, as well as laying the groundwork for more advanced topics.

CMOS IC Layout Concepts, Methodologies, and Tools

He built his own legend as the Head Ball Coach, as well as the groundwork for a dynastic run, at Florida.

The New York Times - Sports

These findings are exploratory in nature and intended to serve as the groundwork for a larger study to investigate how UREs at research universities influence all members of the undergraduate postgraduate faculty triad.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Wallace defined America's wartime mission as laying the groundwork for a peaceful world of global cooperation, "a fight between a slave world and a free world".

Huffington Post

Mr. Putin stoked a new round of speculation on Friday when he announced the creation of a nationwide "popular front," which some saw as laying the groundwork for a possible presidential run.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a groundwork for" to clearly indicate that something is serving as an essential preliminary step or foundation for later developments. For example: "This initial study serves as a groundwork for more extensive research."

Common error

While grammatically correct, "as a groundwork for" can sound overly formal in everyday conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "as a basis for" or "to prepare for" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a groundwork for" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by indicating purpose or providing context. It typically introduces a clause explaining what something serves as a foundation for. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a groundwork for" functions as a prepositional phrase that denotes something serving as a foundational element for subsequent developments. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While grammatically correct, it tends to appear more frequently in formal contexts such as science, news, and business. Alternatives such as "as a foundation for" or "as a basis for" can offer similar meanings. It's a solid choice for clearly indicating preliminary steps but might sound too formal in casual conversation. Be mindful to replace it with a more appropriate alternative in informal settings for improved communication. The examples found by Ludwig show that the word can be used in different scenarios and that its usage is reliable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a foundation for

Emphasizes the stability and support provided by the initial element.

as a basis for

Highlights the underlying principles or core information used to build upon.

as a starting point for

Focuses on the beginning stage of a process or project.

to lay the foundation for

Implies an active effort in establishing a base.

to pave the way for

Suggests making it easier for something to happen in the future.

as preparation for

Indicates readiness and anticipation for a subsequent event or task.

to set the stage for

Implies creating the conditions for something dramatic or significant to occur.

as a building block for

Emphasizes the incremental contribution of each element.

to establish a precedent for

Focuses on setting an example or rule to be followed later.

to provide a framework for

Highlights the structural support offered by the initial element.

FAQs

What does "as a groundwork for" mean?

The phrase "as a groundwork for" means serving as a foundation or preliminary basis upon which something else is built or developed. It implies that the subject is an essential starting point for future endeavors.

How can I use "as a groundwork for" in a sentence?

You can use "as a groundwork for" to show that something is preparing the way for something else. For example: "The initial phase of the project served as "as a groundwork for" the subsequent stages."

What are some alternatives to "as a groundwork for"?

Some alternatives to "as a groundwork for" include "as a foundation for", "as a basis for", or "to lay the foundation for", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "as a groundwork for" and "as a foundation for"?

While both phrases are similar, "as a groundwork for" may imply a slightly less formal or established base compared to "as a foundation for". Use "as a foundation for" when emphasizing the stability and strength of the base.