groundwork
Translation
foundation, preparatory work, basis
Examples
They laid the groundwork for future negotiations.
They laid the groundwork for future negotiations.
Grammar Patterns
to lay the groundwork for ((sth.)) to do the preparatory work for (sth.) They laid the groundwork for future negotiations.
Similar Words
Synonyms: foundation, basis, preparation, preliminaries
Etymology
From 'ground' + 'work'. It refers to the preliminary work done on the ground before building something, i.e., the foundation.
Memory Tips
Think of building a house. You must do the 'ground work' (digging foundations) before you can build the walls. This applies to any project.