lay a foundation
The phrase "lay a foundation" is used both in legal contexts and more generally to describe the initial steps in a process or project.
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Definition
B2General
(figurative)To make a start or establish the basic principles for something.
Example
- Before we can launch the new product, we need to lay a foundation with thorough market research.
- Good study habits in early education lay a foundation for academic success.
C1Legal
(technical)To demonstrate that evidence is authentic and relevant before it is admitted in court.
Example
- The lawyer had to lay a foundation for the witness's testimony before presenting the evidence.
- Without laying a foundation, the document was not accepted by the judge.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "lay a foundation":
lay byfoundation stonelay overlay figurelay outlay intolay aboutlay tolay onlay awaylay openlay downlay pipelay inbreak groundlay to restset downlay up