setting the foundations for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting the foundations for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the establishment of a basis or groundwork for something, such as a project, idea, or relationship. Example: "The new policy is setting the foundations for a more inclusive workplace culture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

I don't think we'll be immortal by 2050, but we'll be setting the foundations for immortality.

The Guardian

In fact, regulators could be setting the foundations for a power supply crisis in Britain, critics say.

The New York Times

The timing in both instances was excruciatingly bad for Showalter, and the absence of credit for setting the foundations for both championships was sometimes exasperating.

The New York Times - Sports

The government has already curbed the power of the constitutional court and will seize authority whenever else it can, setting the foundations for a long stay in power.

The Economist

Thankfully, he was dismissed with enough time for McGhee to come in, secure Rovers Leaguee Two status and start setting the foundations for next year.

The Guardian - Sport

Seeking to understand the teaching and learning demands associated with setting the foundations for global competence development among children ages 3-5.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

I am still thankful to them for setting the foundation for my future career.

The New Yorker

By pioneering economywide carbon regulations, California is setting the foundation for a financially sustainable clean tech sector that will someday drive the California economy.

The New York Times

The nation's founders, the decision said, intended federal judges' decisions to become precedent, with each case setting the foundation for later law.

The New York Times

Privacy and opt-outs are paramount to the success of these programs, setting the foundation for evaluating the impact of ad spend using mechanisms previously unavailable to advertisers.

TechCrunch

The use of innovative elements allowed subjects to overcome space and time barriers, setting the foundation for the development of blended learning in the institution.

International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "setting the foundations for", ensure the subsequent action or outcome is clearly defined to provide context and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "setting the foundations for" in contexts where the meaning is already implied. For instance, instead of saying "setting the foundations for future progress", simply say "enabling future progress."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting the foundations for" functions as a verbal phrase, often introducing a clause that explains the intended outcome or purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, showing it serves to indicate the establishment of a basis for future actions or developments.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "setting the foundations for" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe actions that establish a basis for future developments. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across news, science, and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, clarity and context are key. Alternatives such as "laying the groundwork" or "establishing the basis" can provide similar meanings with slight shifts in nuance. While effective in various settings, mindful application avoids redundancy and strengthens the overall impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

laying the groundwork for

Emphasizes the preparation and initial steps taken to make something possible.

establishing the basis for

Focuses on creating a fundamental principle or idea upon which something is built.

creating a platform for

Highlights the development of a stage or opportunity for further action or growth.

paving the way for

Suggests the removal of obstacles to enable progress or future developments.

preparing the infrastructure for

Specifically refers to the creation of necessary systems and structures.

building a base for

Stresses the construction of a solid and reliable foundation.

developing a framework for

Implies the creation of a structured set of guidelines or principles.

setting the stage for

Similar to creating a platform, but emphasizes anticipation and expectation.

constituting the preliminary phase of

A more formal way to indicate the beginning or initial stage of a process

originating the principle of

Suggests the origination of a concept and the start of its further use

FAQs

How can I use "setting the foundations for" in a sentence?

You can use "setting the foundations for" to describe actions that create a basis for future developments, such as "The government's new policies are "setting the foundations for" economic growth".

What are some alternatives to "setting the foundations for"?

Alternatives include "laying the groundwork for", "establishing the basis for", or "paving the way for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "setting the foundation for" instead of "setting the foundations for"?

While "setting the foundation for" is grammatically correct, "setting the foundations for" is often used to emphasize the multiple elements or broad scope of the groundwork being established. Both are acceptable, but the plural form is more common.

What's the difference between "setting the foundations for" and "building upon"?

"Setting the foundations for" implies creating an initial base, whereas "building upon" suggests expanding or developing something that already exists. The former is about creation, the latter about extension.