lay the groundwork (for something)



Like this video? Subscribe to our free daily email and get a new idiom video every day!

lay the groundwork (for something)

To create or prepare the basics or essential foundation (for something); to pave the way (for something). Our success with this healthcare bill wouldn't be possible, had the previous administration not laid the groundwork already. As CEO of the company, I laid the groundwork for one of the most successful international firms in the country.
See also: lay

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Eireenie-REENIrish
MegMEGEnglish
Lucas['lu:kəs]
Anselmaahn-ZEL-mah (German)German, Italian, Spanish
Pollock['pɔlək]
CupidKYOO-pəd (English)Roman Mythology