lay a/the foundation
idiom
1
: to create a usually stone or concrete structure that supports a building from underneath
2
: to provide something (such as an idea, a principle, or a fact) from which another thing develops or can develop
Her early research laid the foundation for many important medical discoveries.
Examples of lay a/the foundation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
These intentional choices lay the foundation for a culture where every team member feels empowered to contribute, and where a passing idea can spark real, transformative progress.
—
Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
This will also lay the foundation for your SEO (search engine optimization), SERM (search engine reputation management) and ORM (online reputation management) efforts.
—Andrey Insarov, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025
These topical reports lay the foundation for how eVinci will be licensed, Crider says.
—IEEE Spectrum, 9 Jan. 2025
Engaging in simple activities such as reading daily, practicing mindfulness through breathwork or meditation, or rethinking everyday choices like coffee consumption can lay the foundation for improved well-being.
—Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lay a/the foundation
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Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
This will also lay the foundation for your SEO (search engine optimization), SERM (search engine reputation management) and ORM (online reputation management) efforts.
—Andrey Insarov, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025
These topical reports lay the foundation for how eVinci will be licensed, Crider says.
—IEEE Spectrum, 9 Jan. 2025
Engaging in simple activities such as reading daily, practicing mindfulness through breathwork or meditation, or rethinking everyday choices like coffee consumption can lay the foundation for improved well-being.
—Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lay a/the foundation
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Lay vs. Lie
Editor Emily Brewster clarifies the difference.
Cite this Entry
“Lay a/the foundation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lay%20a%2Fthe%20foundation. Accessed 12 Apr. 2025.
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