groundwork

英 ['graʊn(d)wɜːk] 美['graʊnd'wɝk]

• n. 基础；地基，根基

1. the fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained;

"the whole argument rested on a basis of conjecture"

2. lowest support of a structure;

"it was built on a base of solid rock"

"he stood at the foot of the tower"

3. preliminary preparation as a basis or foundation;

"we are prepared today because of groundwork that was done ten years ago"