preparing the ground

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preparing the ground" is grammatically correct and is commonly used in written English.
It means to make the necessary preparations or groundwork for something. It can be used in various contexts, such as preparing for a project, event, or conversation. Example: Before starting the new business, we spent months preparing the ground by conducting market research and developing a solid business plan.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some firms are already preparing the ground.

The Economist

Preparing the ground, you might conclude.

The Guardian - Music

So she's preparing the ground, and shrewdly.

The Guardian

But I think we can start preparing the ground".

The Guardian

He has already been preparing the ground to marginalise the report's suggestions.

The Economist

This February Renault and Nissan started preparing the ground for a huge car factory costing €600m.

The Economist

He has already been preparing the ground for tax increases in this year's budget.

The Economist

In the coming year he needs to make headway in preparing the ground for that.

The Economist

But he seems to be preparing the ground for such a negotiation.

The Economist

Mr Clegg appeared to be preparing the ground for his party to come behind Ukip today.

Independent

"Not preparing the ground and approaching it as an emergency does not allow for organisation".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "preparing the ground", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are preparing for. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity. For example, instead of saying 'They are preparing the ground', specify 'They are preparing the ground for the new building project'.

Common error

Avoid using "preparing the ground" in contexts where the specific action or goal is unclear. This can make your writing sound generic and less impactful. Instead, provide specific details about the preparations being made to enhance clarity and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preparing the ground" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun or part of a verb phrase. It describes the action of making preliminary arrangements for a future event or activity. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preparing the ground" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that signifies making necessary preparations for a future event or goal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It functions primarily as a gerund phrase, often employed in news and business contexts to convey proactive planning and readiness. While suitable for various registers, it is most frequently observed in neutral to professional settings. To enhance clarity, it is best used with specific details about the preparations being made. Alternatives include "laying the foundation" and "paving the way", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

laying the foundation

Focuses on the foundational aspect, emphasizing the creation of a base for future development.

laying the groundwork

Similar to laying the foundation, but with a broader implication of initial preparations.

paving the way

Highlights the act of making a path or course of action easier for others or for future events.

setting the stage

Emphasizes the creation of a setting or environment conducive to a particular outcome.

making preparations

A more general term for getting ready, suitable for a variety of contexts.

clearing the path

Suggests removing obstacles to facilitate progress or action.

priming the pump

Implies initiating an action to stimulate further activity or growth.

developing a basis

Stresses the creation of a fundamental framework or starting point.

establishing prerequisites

Focuses on setting up the necessary conditions or requirements for something to occur.

cultivating conditions

Highlights the deliberate fostering of an environment to support a desired outcome.

FAQs

What does "preparing the ground" mean?

The phrase "preparing the ground" means making the necessary arrangements or initial steps to make something possible or successful. It involves creating a foundation or favorable conditions for future actions or developments.

How can I use "preparing the ground" in a sentence?

You can use "preparing the ground" to describe actions that set the stage for future events. For example: 'The company is "laying the groundwork" for a new marketing campaign', or 'The researchers are "conducting preliminary studies", preparing the ground for larger clinical trials'.

What are some alternatives to "preparing the ground"?

Some alternatives to "preparing the ground" include "laying the foundation", "paving the way", "setting the stage", and "laying the groundwork". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "preparing the ground" a formal or informal phrase?

"Preparing the ground" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is frequently used in news articles, business reports, and academic papers, as well as in everyday conversations.