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
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
These women’s contributions during times of immense change helped lay the foundation for San Diego’s development.
—Elsa Sevilla, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Feb. 2025
His experience with the procedures the organization has in place will help lay the foundation for the No. 60 car.
—Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025
These speaking gigs lay the foundation for obtaining paying speaking gigs, building upon the speaker’s past performance.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lay a/the foundation
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Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2025
These women’s contributions during times of immense change helped lay the foundation for San Diego’s development.
—Elsa Sevilla, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Feb. 2025
His experience with the procedures the organization has in place will help lay the foundation for the No. 60 car.
—Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025
These speaking gigs lay the foundation for obtaining paying speaking gigs, building upon the speaker’s past performance.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes, 10 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 27 Mar. 2025.
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