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lay the groundwork

VERB

prepare

Synonyms

STRONGEST

arrange assemble brace develop draw up equip form formulate gird make plan produce provide qualify ready strengthen supply train

STRONG

adapt adjust anticipate appoint coach concoct construct contrive cook dispose endow fabricate fashion fit fix fortify furnish groom outfit perfect practice prime settle steel

WEAK

build up fill in fit out make provision make up put in order put together smooth the way turn out warm up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

destroy discourage disperse dissuade forget halt hurt let go neglect ruin scatter stop take weaken

STRONG

break confuse demolish disarrange disorder disorganize disturb ignore unfit unfurnish unsettle upset wreck

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.

In the months ahead, he must lay the groundwork for consensus between nearly 200 nations even as the war rattles energy markets, nations scramble for fuel supply and climate change slips down the priority list.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

Shrinking the balance sheet would lay the groundwork for lower interest rates.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

Scientists hope these findings could help lay the groundwork for future therapies that guide microbial communities toward healthier states rather than eliminating bacteria altogether.

From Science Daily • May 8, 2026

But the principle — lay the groundwork, then count on timing and good fortune — could apply here.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

It was time for Dasch to help lay the groundwork and recruit some other men.

From Nazi Saboteurs by Samantha Seiple

lay the groundwork

Example Sentences

Related Words