German Conversation · Level 82
60 words
German word
Grundstein
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈgʁʊntˌʃtaɪ̯n/
Meaning
- masculine nounfoundation stone
Example
Die Grundsteine des Gebäudes wurden restauriert.
The foundation stones of the building were restored.
More examples
Die Weiterbildung legte den Grundstein für ihre neue Karriere.
The continuing education course laid the foundation stone for her new career.
Core concept
A first stone set at the base of a building supports the structure that follows, and it can likewise represent the beginning of a larger project.
Common phrases
den Grundstein legen
lay the foundation stone
als Grundstein fungieren
serve as a foundation stone
Similar words
Grundlage: An abstract basis or premise on which something is built.
Fundament: An underground structure that supports a building's weight.
Basis: A basic element that supports an activity or idea.
Ausgangspunkt: A concrete starting point for an undertaking or discussion.
Definition in German
Der feierlich als erster gelegte Stein eines Bauwerks; im übertragenen Sinn der Beginn oder die Grundlage eines Vorhabens.
Word origin
Grundstein is a compound of Grund, meaning ground or basis, and Stein, meaning stone.
Usage tips
- The common expression "den Grundstein für etwas legen" uses für with the accusative and means to establish the basis for something.
Other meanings
- foundationnoun
- starting pointnoun
Opposites
- Endeendnoun
Related words
- Grundsteinlegungfoundation stone layingnoun