What does “Break ground” mean?
"Break ground" means to begin a new project or venture.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The construction company is set to break ground on the new office building next week.
Example
After months of planning, the team is finally ready to break ground on their innovative startup.
Example
The city council approved the proposal and now the developers can break ground on the new park
Is “Break ground” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Break ground” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Break ground” effectively in context?
You can use "Break ground" to indicate the beginning of a new project or venture. It emphasizes the idea of taking the first steps and starting something. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase:
- 1Construction
After months of planning, the team is finally ready to break ground on their innovative startup.
- 2Business
The construction company is set to break ground on the new office building next week.
- 3Urban Development
The city council approved the proposal and now the developers can break ground on the new park.
Similar phrases to “Break ground”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Break ground” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Break ground" is related to construction and agriculture. In construction, breaking ground refers to the initial excavation or digging of the site to prepare for building. In agriculture, it refers to the process of preparing the soil for planting by breaking up the ground. Over time, the phrase has come to be used more broadly to mean starting a new project or venture.
Is “Break ground” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Break ground" is a common expression in everyday conversation, especially in the context of construction, business, and urban development. People often use it to announce the start of a new project or venture.
What tone does “Break ground” have?
"Break ground" conveys a tone of excitement and anticipation. It signifies the beginning of something significant and holds a sense of progress and achievement.
Can “Break ground” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "break ground" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that is commonly used in professional contexts such as business meetings, project announcements, and construction updates. However, it can also be used in casual conversations among friends and family.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The company is ready to break ground on their new headquarters.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "break ground"!' to imply the start of a new endeavor.
