lay basis for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lay basis for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the foundation or groundwork for something, such as a theory, project, or initiative. Example: "The research conducted in this study will lay the basis for future investigations in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The results of the scanning process lay basis for of the scenario building later on.

European Journal of Futures Research

Different initial values of the small signal models can influence both frequencies and damping ratios of oscillation modes, which lay basis for further damping strategy study.

Renewable Energy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Fontenelle helped to lay the basis for empirical observation as the proper approach to scientific truth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If London aggressively supports Washington, a resolution strong enough to lay the basis for action will be achievable.

The Guardian

Identifying the genes, and when and where they operate, could lay the basis for someday devising gene therapy for the syndrome, Dr. Reeves said.

The New York Times - Science

First, it must lay the basis for a global regime and subsequent agreements that limit global temperature rise in accordance with the scientific evidence.

The Guardian

But they fear that it would lay the basis for still grander plans, which would give the United States a strategic advantage.

The New York Times

Neurochemists have identified many brain proteins that help cells survive, make connections between cells and lay the basis for learning and memory, Dr. Nelson said.

The New York Times

Based on Comey's prepared remarks, his Senate testimony will lay the basis for this legal claim, without explicitly making the charge.

The New Yorker

That will lay the basis for Phase IV: the September-October debates, and the candidates' reactions to crises and job trends.

The New York Times

Before a summit meeting is convened, they want to lay enough basis for the Israeli and Palestinian leaders to be able to get together and make decisions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lay basis for", ensure that the connection between the foundation and the subsequent development is clear to your audience. For example: "This research will "lay basis for" a new generation of treatments."

Common error

Avoid overstating the impact of something that "lays basis for" future developments. Be specific about the areas it will influence, and don't imply that it alone guarantees success.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lay basis for" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of establishing a foundation or groundwork. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in various contexts, such as scientific research and political negotiations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lay basis for" is used to describe the act of creating a foundation or groundwork for future actions or developments. According to Ludwig, while grammatically correct, it is relatively rare, appearing mostly in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts. Related phrases include "establish a foundation for" and "create a groundwork for". When employing this phrase, ensure a clear connection exists between the foundation and subsequent developments. Though found in diverse sources, its formality suits academic and professional settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a foundation for

Focuses on the act of establishing rather than the preparatory work implied by "lay".

create a groundwork for

Emphasizes the preparation and initial steps in creating something.

form a basis for

Highlights the act of forming as the primary action.

provide a foundation for

Stresses the act of providing something that will serve as a basis.

set the stage for

This idiom emphasizes preparation for future events.

pave the way for

Suggests removing obstacles to enable future progress.

underpin

A single word suggesting that the entire structure rests on it.

serve as a springboard for

Implies the beginning is only the starting point of much greater development.

instigate

Focuses on initiating or triggering a specific action or process.

facilitate

Highlights the act of making something easier or more likely to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "lay basis for" in a sentence?

You can use "lay basis for" to indicate that something is establishing a foundation or groundwork for future developments. For example, "This study will lay the basis for further research in this field."

What can I say instead of "lay basis for"?

You can use alternatives like "establish a foundation for", "create a groundwork for", or "form a basis for" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "lay the basis of" instead of "lay the basis for"?

While "lay the basis of" might be understood, "lay the basis for" is the more common and grammatically preferred phrasing. It clearly indicates the direction or purpose of the foundation.

What is the difference between "lay basis for" and "build upon"?

"Lay basis for" refers to creating the initial foundation, while "build upon" implies adding to or developing something that already exists. They are related but describe different stages of a process.