groundwork

Noun
  1. The fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained (synset 105801562)
    "the whole argument rested on a basis of conjecture"
    is a type of: assumption, supposal, supposition - a hypothesis that is taken for granted
    subtypes: meat and potatoes - the fundamental part
    is a part of: explanation - thought that makes something comprehensible
    same as: base, basis, cornerstone, foundation, fundament
  2. Lowest support of a structure (synset 103391862)
    "it was built on a base of solid rock"; "he stood at the foot of the tower"
    is a type of: support - supporting structure that holds up or provides a foundation
    subtypes:
    • bed - a foundation of earth or rock supporting a road or railroad track
    • mat, raft, raft foundation - a foundation (usually on soft ground) consisting of an extended layer of reinforced concrete
    is a part of: construction, structure - a thing constructed; a complex entity constructed of many parts
    same as: base, foot, foundation, fundament, substructure, understructure
  3. Preliminary preparation as a basis or foundation (synset 101146093)
    "we are prepared today because of groundwork that was done ten years ago"
    is a type of: preparation, readying - the activity of putting or setting in order in advance of some act or purpose

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