build the foundations for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build the foundations for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the establishment of a basis or groundwork for something, such as a project, relationship, or concept. Example: "The new educational program aims to build the foundations for a more inclusive learning environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

The president spoke of taking the tough medicine necessary to build the foundations for long-term growth.

The New York Times

Mr Engle's work has helped build the foundations for measuring and avoiding myriad types of risks in the modern economy.

The Economist

In Japan they build the foundations for literacy and numeracy at high school, and universities can build on this.

The Guardian

It will build the foundations for an even stronger future a stronger economy, a fairer society and a nation no longer separated by its physical distance from other parts of the world.

The Economist

Still, he said in 2004, "I had this very strong conviction that we will make it, that we will be able to build the foundations for a democratic state".

The New York Times

What was needed, argued Mr Joy, was an organisation to build the foundations for this new style of computing, allowing the peer-to-peer companies to do what they do best develop applications.Hence JXTA.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

He must build the foundation for the office building or one of several apartment towers by November, or risk losing his permits and public approvals.

The New York Times

That is how you build the foundation for new and innovative industries.

The New York Times

Young, fresh wines offer carefree pleasures, and build the foundation for a lifetime of enjoying wine.

The New York Times - Food

We'll need workers to build the foundation for a clean energy economy.

The New York Times

(That's not the question — that's a rhetorical question that helps build the foundation for the actual question).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "build the foundations for", ensure that the subsequent actions or developments directly relate to and benefit from the established groundwork. For example, "Investing in early childhood education helps build the foundations for future academic success".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the immediate benefits of building foundations. Instead, focus on the long-term potential and necessary follow-up actions. For instance, instead of claiming that "the new policy will immediately solve all problems", state that it "will build the foundations for a more equitable system over time".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build the foundations for" acts as a verb phrase, functioning to describe the action of creating a necessary groundwork or basis for future development or success. Ludwig examples show it is used in contexts related to economics, politics, education, and technology.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Science

28%

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

16%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "build the foundations for" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes the act of establishing a necessary basis for future development. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. Alternatives such as "lay the groundwork for" and "establish the basis for" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. When using this phrase, it's crucial to focus on the long-term potential of the foundational efforts and avoid exaggerating immediate benefits.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lay the groundwork for

This alternative suggests preparing the initial steps or conditions for future development.

establish the basis for

This phrase emphasizes creating a fundamental principle or reason for something to develop.

set the stage for

This alternative implies preparing the circumstances for an event or development to occur.

create a platform for

This suggests building a structure or system that allows for further development or action.

develop a framework for

This phrase highlights the creation of a structured system to support future growth or progress.

form the basis of

This alternative emphasizes the creation of a fundamental component or principle.

prepare the ground for

This suggests making the necessary arrangements or preparations for something to happen.

pave the way for

This alternative emphasizes making progress easier or more likely in the future.

initiate preparations for

This phrase highlights starting the process of getting ready for something.

underpin the future of

This alternative emphasizes providing a solid and essential support for something's future.

FAQs

What does "build the foundations for" mean?

The phrase "build the foundations for" means to establish the initial groundwork or basis necessary for future development or success. It implies creating a solid starting point that supports subsequent actions or progress.

How can I use "build the foundations for" in a sentence?

You can use "build the foundations for" to describe the establishment of essential elements that will support future endeavors. For example, "The company is investing in research and development to "lay the groundwork for" long-term innovation".

What are some alternatives to "build the foundations for"?

Alternatives to "build the foundations for" include "establish the basis for", "set the stage for", and "create a platform for". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "build the foundations for" and "lay the groundwork for"?

While "build the foundations for" and "lay the groundwork for" are similar, "build the foundations for" often implies a more structured or deliberate construction process, whereas "lay the groundwork for" can suggest a more general preparation. Both phrases are acceptable and often interchangeable.