set the groundwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the groundwork" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is commonly used when talking about laying the foundation for a task to come or a plan of action. For example, "We need to set the groundwork for the company's expansion into new markets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The experiences then become stored as unprocessed memories and set the groundwork for later dysfunction.

The New York Times

Parental discord, for example, can set the groundwork for future relationship problems.

The New York Times

The first step is to process the earlier memories that have set the groundwork for the interpersonal difficulties.

The New York Times

So just set the groundwork for our listeners by helping people understand why this has become so relevant?

Columbia University

He hopes to set the groundwork for other students to organize a larger pledge effort in 2008.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It was only by chance that they occurred and persisted to set the groundwork for the other mutations.

The New York Times - Science

Some military experts have questioned whether 30 days will be enough to set the groundwork for peace.

The New York Times

His Flash Player design technique set the groundwork for a format that later evolved exponentially to accommodate online advertisements, Facebook applications and video sites like YouTube.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Orr set the groundwork for a filing in May, detailing the city's finances in a report that painted a grim picture of a cash-hemorrhaging city.

The New York Times

"This will help me as we set the groundwork for the decisions that have to be made by the president with regards to our enduring presence".

Independent

But in 2010, Harbaugh gave the Cardinal its best season in at least the last 70 years, and set the groundwork for a potentially magical season in 2011.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set the groundwork", ensure the subsequent action or goal is clearly defined to provide context and purpose. For example, "We need to "set the groundwork" now for a successful product launch next quarter."

Common error

While "set the groundwork" is widely applicable, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "prepare" or "arrange" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the groundwork" functions as a verbal phrase, often used transitively. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and used to describe preparing for a future task. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set the groundwork" is a versatile and frequently used expression that signifies the act of preparing a foundation for future actions or events. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It appears most commonly in news, academic, and scientific contexts, indicating its suitability for both formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, ensure the subsequent action or goal is clearly defined for maximum impact. While "set the groundwork" is suitable for multiple situations, remember that depending on the context there may be better alternative as "lay the foundation" or "establish the basis".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lay the foundation

Emphasizes building a base for something more complex.

Establish the basis

Focuses on creating a fundamental principle or idea.

Lay the basis

Similar to establish the basis but with less emphasis on formal establishment.

Prepare the way

Suggests clearing obstacles and making things easier for what comes next.

Pave the path

Implies smoothing the progress towards a goal.

Set the stage

Creates an environment or setting for an event or action.

Build the infrastructure

Focuses on constructing the necessary physical or organizational structures.

Forge the conditions

Highlights the act of creating specific circumstances for something to happen.

Create the framework

Stresses the design and construction of a supporting structure.

Prime the pump

Indicates initiating an action to stimulate further activity.

FAQs

How can I use "set the groundwork" in a sentence?

"Set the groundwork" is used to describe the process of preparing a foundation for something to happen. For instance, "The meeting will "set the groundwork" for future negotiations."

What are some alternatives to "set the groundwork"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "lay the foundation", "establish the basis", or "prepare the way" as alternatives to "set the groundwork".

Is it more appropriate to say "set the groundwork" or "lay the groundwork"?

Both "set the groundwork" and "lay the groundwork" are correct and widely used. The choice depends on personal preference as they convey a similar meaning.

What does it mean to "set the groundwork" for something?

To "set the groundwork" means to create the initial conditions or make the necessary preparations for something to succeed or develop effectively. It involves taking preliminary steps to ensure a positive outcome.