set the groundwork for

USAGE SUMMARY

"set the groundwork for" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to lay a foundation or establish the necessary basis for something. Example: The new government's policies on education have set the groundwork for improving the quality of our schools and providing better resources for students.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 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

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

Textile, boot, and machinery manufacturing began in Massachusetts and Rhode Islandd) and set the groundwork for the eventual industrialization and urbanization of the northeastern states.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Senator John Kerry and President Bush battled over the Iraq war and the threat of another domestic terrorist attack, and set the groundwork for their first debate, Thursday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set the groundwork for", ensure that the subsequent action or development is clearly stated or implied to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "set the groundwork for" when the action only has a minor or indirect influence on the subsequent outcome. Instead, opt for weaker verbs if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the groundwork for" functions as a prepositional verb phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to indicate the action of establishing a basis or foundation that facilitates future developments or actions, as exemplified in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Huffington Post

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set the groundwork for" is a prepositional phrase that signifies establishing a foundation or creating conditions for future events. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is considered grammatically correct and commonly used. The phrase is versatile, appearing frequently in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to use it accurately and avoid overstating the actual impact of the action. Related phrases such as "lay the foundation for" or "pave the way for" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Mastering its proper usage allows for more precise and effective communication across various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lay the foundation for

Focuses on the act of creating a base, similar to building construction.

build the foundation for

Like "lay the foundation", it stresses the construction of a base.

establish the basis for

Emphasizes creating a fundamental justification or reason.

pave the way for

Suggests removing obstacles to make a path easier.

create the conditions for

Highlights the setting of necessary circumstances for something to happen.

form the underpinnings of

Indicates creating basic support or justification.

prepare the infrastructure for

Implies organizing a complex system in advance.

initiate the preparations for

Signifies starting the preliminary actions.

develop the pre-requisites for

Focuses on creating essential prior requirements.

prime the pump for

An idiomatic expression suggesting initial action to stimulate later activity.

FAQs

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

You can use "set the groundwork for" to describe actions that establish a foundation or create conditions for future events. For instance, "The initial investment "set the groundwork for" long-term growth".

What are some alternatives to "set the groundwork for"?

Alternatives include "lay the foundation for", "pave the way for", or "establish the basis for", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is "setting the groundwork" the same as "laying the groundwork"?

Yes, "setting the groundwork" and "laying the groundwork" are essentially the same. They both mean preparing a foundation or making arrangements for something that will happen later. The phrase "laying the groundwork" is more common.

What's the difference between "set the stage for" and "set the groundwork for"?

"Set the stage for" implies creating a scenario or situation, often with a sense of drama or anticipation. "Set the groundwork for", on the other hand, suggests establishing a practical foundation or necessary conditions. Consider, "The agreement "set the stage for" negotiations" versus "The research "set the groundwork for" future studies".