groundwork for discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "groundwork for discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the foundational elements or preliminary steps needed to facilitate a conversation or debate on a particular topic. Example: "Before we dive into the main topics, let's lay the groundwork for discussion by outlining our objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Perhaps laying the groundwork for discussions, Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou was scheduled to meet with France's President Nicolas Sarkozy on Wednesday.

Forbes

As justification is a central concept in science and critique the origin of scientific development [72], I focus on them here to lay the groundwork for further discussion.

European Journal of Futures Research

"The goal has been to get both sides on the same page," says Lewis. "We're building the groundwork for official discussions".

Huffington Post

Kim is expected to meet with President Donald Trump in the coming months, and Friday's summit is poised to set the groundwork for those discussions.

Huffington Post

In summary, Aristotle laid the philosophical groundwork for all subsequent discussions of elements, pure substances, and chemical combination.

SEP

Schlick's discussion of the differences between intuition and knowledge laid the groundwork for his treatment of realism.

SEP

These Delphi intervention items will provide the groundwork for the subsequent consensus discussion to determine the final inclusion of items in the GREET, the first reporting guideline for educational interventions in EBP.

BMC Medical Education

That not only means competent people, but it means forging them via the honest and open discussion that is necessary for decisions to be made -- forging the groundwork for honest and open discussions.

The New York Times

In appearing to lay the groundwork for a revision, officials, in discussions with environmental groups and in interviews in the last week, have called particular attention to objections raised in April by Judge Edward J. Lodge of Federal District Court in Boise, who is hearing the challenges to the Clinton rule.

The New York Times

The conclusions from this discussion build the groundwork for showcasing time series for three countries.

Land Use Policy

We have also attempted to better explain the uncertainties that surround the quantitative relationship between the numbers of Vilya and γH2AV foci in terms of laying the groundwork for the model presented in the Discussion of the paper.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "groundwork for discussion" when you want to emphasize the importance of preparation and planning before engaging in a conversation. This highlights the deliberate effort being made to ensure a productive and focused exchange of ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "groundwork for discussion" without specifying the elements being established. Without context, the phrase can sound generic and lack concrete meaning. Instead of saying 'We laid the groundwork for discussion', specify what this groundwork entails.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "groundwork for discussion" primarily functions as a noun phrase that describes preparatory actions or foundational elements needed before engaging in a conversation. Based on Ludwig's analysis, this phrase implies a deliberate effort to create a conducive environment for productive dialogue.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "groundwork for discussion" is a noun phrase denoting preparatory actions for a conversation, as determined by Ludwig. While grammatically correct, Ludwig's analysis reveals a scarcity of examples. Thus, according to Ludwig, the phrase is valid, though not broadly prevalent. To enhance its impact, specify the precise preparatory actions being described. Related phrases, such as ""basis for dialogue"" or "foundation for debate", offer semantically related alternatives. Ultimately, employing "groundwork for discussion" effectively involves providing clear context to highlight the deliberate effort behind facilitating productive dialogue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

laying the foundation for talks

Similar in meaning, but focuses on the act of building a base for future conversations.

basis for dialogue

Replaces "groundwork" with "basis", suggesting a foundational starting point for conversation.

foundation for debate

Substitutes "groundwork" with "foundation", emphasizing a more structured and formal preparation for argument.

establishing a framework for dialogue

Highlights the creation of a structured system to guide the conversation.

preliminary steps for conversation

Replaces "groundwork" with a more explicit description of preparatory actions for an informal discussion.

creating a platform for discussion

Emphasizes building an opportunity for open conversation.

setting the stage for discourse

Uses a more metaphorical expression, focusing on creating an environment conducive to discussion.

preparing for conversation

A more general phrase emphasizing the act of getting ready for a discussion.

paving the way for conversation

Uses a metaphor to suggest making the conversation easier and more likely.

setting the scene for discussion

Focuses on creating the right context and atmosphere for a productive discussion.

FAQs

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

You can use "groundwork for discussion" to describe actions taken to prepare for a conversation. For instance, "The meeting served as the "basis for dialogue", laying the "groundwork for discussion" on future collaborations".

What are some alternatives to "groundwork for discussion"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""basis for dialogue"", "foundation for debate", or "preliminary steps for conversation", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "laying the groundwork for discussion" and "having a discussion"?

"Laying the "groundwork for discussion"" refers to the preparatory actions taken before a conversation, while "having a discussion" describes the actual exchange of ideas.

In what contexts is "groundwork for discussion" most appropriate?

"Groundwork for discussion" is suitable in contexts where preparation and planning are essential for a productive conversation, such as negotiations, strategic planning, or academic debates.