setting grounds for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting grounds for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the establishment of a basis or foundation for something, such as an argument, decision, or action. Example: "The research conducted by the team is setting grounds for a new approach to renewable energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It has been hypothesized that variations in birth weight are among the most visible manifestations of a broader set of biological changes setting grounds for the development of non-communicable diseases in later life and that such biological changes may be caused, noticeably, by environmental factors [ 3].

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The study has set grounds for further evaluation of VXP in patients with well-recognized risk factors and distinctly identified forms of ED.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

If they fail to comply, the reports said, the generals will issue their own new interim charter setting ground rules for the assembly.

The New York Times

Most of these steps involve setting ground rules for the party in advance.

Huffington Post

And any government entity that oversees the health-insurance pool or acts as referee in setting ground rules for all plans will not favor the public plan.

Huffington Post

In setting ground rules for the event, the Boston Police Department banned weapons of any kind at the gathering, including shields, open flames, firearms, knives, fireworks and flagpoles.

Huffington Post

On the bus ride over, Gamby engages in a power struggle with a hip, bike-riding history teacher over who gets to give a speech setting ground rules for the kids on the trip.

Vice

Dr. Glover said he saw no need for fundamental changes in the 1984 law that set ground rules for the approval of generic drugs.

The New York Times

Today he met again in Gaza with Hamas representatives to set ground rules for future demonstrations.

The New York Times

Investment issues provide one possibility; the WTO could work to rein in investment subsidies and set ground rules for when countries can invest across borders without interference.

The Economist

It sets ground rules for all offshore projects and businesses, including energy ventures and conservation areas that lie within three miles of the coast.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "setting grounds for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being prepared or enabled. For example, "This research is "setting grounds for" future innovations in the field."

Common error

Avoid using "setting grounds for" when a more direct verb like "causing" or "enabling" would be clearer. The phrase implies a preparatory stage, not a direct result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting grounds for" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a verb followed by a noun and a preposition, indicating the action of establishing a foundation or basis. Ludwig confirms its usability, particularly in contexts involving preparation or enablement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "setting grounds for" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of establishing a foundation or basis for something. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is usable and correct. While it isn't the most common phrase, appearing less frequently than alternatives like "laying the groundwork for", it finds its place in scientific, news, and formal contexts. It is important to use "setting grounds for" when describing preparatory actions rather than direct results to accurately convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

laying the foundation for

This alternative uses "laying" instead of "setting" and "foundation" instead of "grounds", emphasizing the act of creating a base.

establishing a basis for

This option replaces "setting grounds" with "establishing a basis", focusing on the act of creating a foundation or justification.

creating a platform for

This phrase uses "creating a platform" instead of "setting grounds", suggesting the development of an opportunity or stage for something.

paving the way for

This idiom suggests clearing obstacles to make future progress easier, similar to "setting grounds for".

preparing the groundwork for

This alternative uses "preparing" instead of "setting" and includes "work", highlighting the effort involved in creating the foundation.

building a case for

This phrase focuses specifically on creating a persuasive argument or justification.

developing a rationale for

This option uses more formal language, emphasizing the creation of a logical basis.

fostering an environment for

This alternative emphasizes the creation of supportive conditions for growth or development.

providing a framework for

This phrase suggests offering a structured set of guidelines or principles.

instigating the potential for

This option highlights the initiation of possible future outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "setting grounds for" in a sentence?

You can use "setting grounds for" to describe actions or events that establish a foundation or create the potential for future developments. For example: "This agreement is "setting grounds for" increased cooperation between the two countries."

What are some alternatives to "setting grounds for"?

Alternatives include "laying the foundation for", "establishing a basis for", or "paving the way for", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "setting grounds for" or "laying the groundwork for"?

Both "setting grounds for" and "laying the groundwork for" are acceptable, but "laying the groundwork for" might be more commonly used. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "setting grounds for" and "creating an opportunity for"?

"Setting grounds for" implies creating the necessary conditions or foundation, while "creating an opportunity for" suggests opening up a specific possibility or chance. The former is broader and more preparatory.