lay the first stone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"This is the government and legislature that have the ambition to lay the first stone and start building this blessed project," said Matteo Salvini, the infrastructure minister and head of the League coalition party.

From Reuters • Nov. 22, 2022

After dinner, her eyes red with weeping, she went to the convent to try and soften Gerard, and lay the first stone at least of a reconciliation.

From The Cloister and the Hearth A Tale of the Middle Ages by Reade, Charles

For myself, I sincerely trust that the good work of which we are now assembled to lay the first stone may, under God's blessing, prosper and accomplish its purpose.

From Speeches and Addresses of H. R. H. the Prince of Wales: 1863-1888 by VII, Edward

To lay the first stone of additional buildings, on part of the 80 acres belonging to the Asylum, the presence of the Prince of Wales was asked, and was very cordially given.

From Speeches and Addresses of H. R. H. the Prince of Wales: 1863-1888 by VII, Edward

But there were still such multitudes, that it was with great difficulty I got through them, to lay the first stone.

From The World's Greatest Books — Volume 10 — Lives and Letters by Mee, Arthur