groundwork

[ ground-wurk ]

noun

1. foundation or basis:

   He laid the groundwork for an international conference.

groundwork

/ ˈɡraʊndˌwɜːk /

noun

1. preliminary work as a foundation or basis
2. the ground or background of a painting, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of groundwork¹

First recorded in 1540–50; ground ¹ + work

Example Sentences

As JNF forestry workers began laying the groundwork for a new forest in August 2021, Israeli police helped clear the way by evicting people from their homes, which they then demolished.

From Salon

Progress has not been a straight line and the league collapsed within two years, but the impact was still far-reaching and, according to Scurry, "set the groundwork" for what has happened since.

From BBC

Their scheme laid the groundwork for the construction of the Los Angeles Aqueduct, which in 1913 began sending the valley’s water to the growing city 233 miles away.

From Los Angeles Times

This will be crucial in laying the groundwork for success — and ensuring that the special interests that opposed Measure G, including county employee unions, don’t try to weaken or stall the ambitious plans.

From Los Angeles Times

After a sometimes chaotic start to his first term, Trump is laying the groundwork for his next administration with a more clearly defined plan - and personnel ready to enact it.

From BBC

Related Words

• preparation

More About Groundwork

What is groundwork?

Groundwork is a foundation or basis.

Groundwork can describe an actual plot of land for a building or construct, but it can also be used figuratively to describe the beginnings of a negotiation or agreement.

Example: I’m laying the groundwork for a new partnership right now.

Where does groundwork come from?

The first records of the term groundwork come from around 1540. It combines the word ground, the surface of the earth, and work, as in “labor” or “toil.” Literally, groundwork is work done on the ground. Figuratively, it describes the beginning work of a new relationship or something similar.

Some examples of physical groundwork include installing a foundation, marking a claim of land, and removing sod or grass from a section of land. Sometimes groundwork is used to describe the beginning steps of a painting or work of art in which the backgrounds or landscapes are drawn before the subject.

Did you know … ?

What are some synonyms for groundwork?

• fundamentals
• foundation
• basis
• preparation

What are some words that share a root or word element with groundwork? 

• ground
• work

What are some words that often get used in discussing groundwork?

• beginning
• early
• foundation
• negotiation
• relationship

How is groundwork used in real life?

Groundwork is often used figuratively in everyday conversations.

BREAKING: Cybersecurity firm says Russia-linked hackers are laying groundwork to spy on US Senate staff.

— The Associated Press (@AP) January 12, 2018

When you write dialogue for different characters try to give them different points of view. This will create better groundwork for better stories.

— Butch Hartman (@realhartman) November 20, 2017

Very excited to begin laying the groundwork for a project that combines 2 things I care deeply about. Health and wellness along with those who have served this great nation. Hopefully will have a big announcement in October/November.

— John Cena (@JohnCena) July 11, 2019

Try using groundwork!

True or False?

Groundwork is the last step in a construction project.