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
However, reactionary approaches can prevent us from making strategic plans that lay the foundation for long-term growth.
—
Laura Coccaro, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
And, who knows, one of those bricks might lay the foundation for more charitable actions.
—R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2025
Trump and his transition — armed with a cannon of executive orders — are preparing an early shock-and-awe campaign to lay the foundation for his ambitious second term.
—Axios, 20 Jan. 2025
Fostering habit resilience can lay the foundation for deeper focus and stronger commitment.
—Mo Hamzian, Rolling Stone, 17 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for lay a/the foundation
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Laura Coccaro, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
And, who knows, one of those bricks might lay the foundation for more charitable actions.
—R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2025
Trump and his transition — armed with a cannon of executive orders — are preparing an early shock-and-awe campaign to lay the foundation for his ambitious second term.
—Axios, 20 Jan. 2025
Fostering habit resilience can lay the foundation for deeper focus and stronger commitment.
—Mo Hamzian, Rolling Stone, 17 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for lay a/the foundation
Video
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 3 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share