lay the grounds for

USAGE SUMMARY

"lay the grounds for" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase typically means to set the basis or foundation for something. For example, "The Director's speech laid the grounds for a successful outcome to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

These findings may lay the grounds for future design of novel treatments that will induce defensins and TLRs and, as a result, bolster the immune system in diabetic patients.

Molecular Immunology

In order to lay the grounds for a future study of the deformation of the fronts of coplanar cracks during their final coalescence, we consider the model problem of a system of two coplanar, parallel, identical slit-cracks loaded in mode I in some infinite body.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

However, a victory for Mousavi could perhaps lay the grounds for Iran to engage with the US and the West on its nuclear dossier without losing face.

Huffington Post

So when it came time to lay the grounds for succession, Kim II's works on the manufacturing of illusions were just sitting there waiting to be used to establish his authority as a genius without parallel.

Vice

Its results will lay the grounds for the implementation of SDM in family medicine.

BMC Family Practice

Further studies are needed to validate these findings and to lay the grounds for targeted therapeutic intervention.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It would lay the ground for elections.

The New York Times

"This could lay the ground for the execution of postelection protesters".

The New York Times

"I want to lay the ground for a relatively homogenous fiscal zone".

The Economist

And he appears to lay the ground for a power-sharing deal with Labour.

Independent

Romney was criticised during his governorship for appearing to lay the ground for a presidential run.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lay the grounds for" when you want to emphasize the preparatory steps taken to make a future event or outcome more likely. It is especially useful in formal writing and professional contexts.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "lay the grounds for" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "set the stage for" or "pave the way for."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lay the grounds for" functions as a connector, specifically indicating purpose or preparation. As Ludwig's AI confirms, it signifies setting a basis or foundation. This usage is observed across various contexts, setting up conditions for a subsequent action or event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lay the grounds for" is a grammatically sound and meaningful phrase used to indicate the preparation or creation of a foundation for a future event. While Ludwig's AI confirms its usability, it is more common in neutral to formal contexts such as news, science, and business. Consider the setting when choosing this phrase, as simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal communication. Remember that while both “lay the ground for” and “"lay the grounds for"” are acceptable, the plural form emphasizes multiple preparatory actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish the basis for

Focuses on establishing a foundation or starting point.

set the stage for

Emphasizes creating conditions for a future event.

pave the way for

Highlights the removal of obstacles to facilitate progress.

prepare the foundation for

Stresses the preparatory aspect of creating a base.

create the conditions for

Focuses on generating circumstances that enable something.

build a platform for

Suggests constructing a base for further development.

form the groundwork for

Highlights the initial work needed to support future developments.

develop a rationale for

Emphasizes creating a logical basis or justification.

provide a justification for

Highlights giving reasons or explanations to support a cause.

underpin the possibility of

Stresses providing underlying support for future potential.

FAQs

How can I use "lay the grounds for" in a sentence?

You can use "lay the grounds for" to indicate preparing for a future event. For example: "The research will "lay the grounds for" future studies."

What phrases are similar to "lay the grounds for"?

Similar phrases include "establish the basis for", "set the stage for", and "pave the way for".

Is it better to say "lay the ground for" or "lay the grounds for"?

"Lay the ground for" and "lay the grounds for" are both acceptable, with "lay the ground for" being more common. The plural form, ""lay the grounds for"", emphasizes multiple preparatory actions.

What is the difference between "lay the grounds for" and "lay the foundation for"?

While both phrases mean to prepare for something, "lay the foundation for" suggests building a strong, fundamental base, whereas ""lay the grounds for"" focuses more on creating the circumstances necessary for a future event.