We must lay the groundwork before we start building.
lay the groundwork
idiomTo create a foundation; to provide the basics or fundamentals.
The team spent weeks researching the market to lay the groundwork for their new business plan.
By establishing clear communication protocols early on, the manager successfully laid the groundwork for a productive and long-term collaboration between the two departments.
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lay a finger on
To merely touch.
- 02
lay an anchor to the windward
To adopt precautionary or anticipatory measures for potential future success or security.
- 03
lay an egg
To produce a failure or flop; to do something which is unsuccessful.
- 04
lay at someone's door
To blame (a problem) on someone; to hold someone responsible for (something).
- 05
lay by the heels
To fetter, to shackle; to imprison.
- 06
lay down the law
To authoritatively or dogmatically assert what is permitted or not permitted.
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lay down the marker
To set the standard.
- 08
lay eggs
To produce a string of failures or flops.