Groundbreaking
/ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsMarking a new and important stage or set of developments; innovative.
/ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/
Innovative or pioneering
The new documentary offers a groundbreaking look at climate change.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone is building a house, they have to break ground first, right? Groundbreaking means something is so new and different that it's like it's building something new.
👶 For kids: Something groundbreaking is like something brand new and super cool. Like a new toy that does something nobody has ever seen before!
More Examples
Her groundbreaking research revolutionized the field of genetics.
The museum is showcasing a groundbreaking exhibition of modern art.
How It's Used
"The company's new software is groundbreaking in the field of artificial intelligence."
"The scientist's research led to a groundbreaking discovery in medicine."
"Her use of unconventional materials created groundbreaking artworks."
The act of starting something new, especially an important project or initiative.
/ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/
The act or instance of starting something important
The groundbreaking for the new library was attended by the mayor.
💡 Simply: The start of something big and important. Like when you first start building a big LEGO set.
👶 For kids: It's the start of something exciting! Like when you dig the first hole for building a house or starting a fun project!
More Examples
The company held a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of the new project.
The groundbreaking marked a new era for the research team.
How It's Used
"The groundbreaking for the new hospital took place last week."
"The groundbreaking of the new office marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Groundbreaking ceremony
A formal event marking the beginning of a construction project or significant undertaking.
"The groundbreaking ceremony for the new stadium was a lavish affair."
Groundbreaking research
Research that makes a new discovery.
"The team conducted groundbreaking research on the use of AI in medicine."
From "ground" + "breaking", referring to the act of breaking ground to start construction, metaphorically extended to mean innovative or pioneering.
The word "groundbreaking" and its related terms are relatively modern, with the metaphorical use developing in the 20th century alongside rapid technological and scientific advancements.
Memory tip
Think of physically breaking ground to build something new. Groundbreaking ideas build the future.
Word Origin
"The act of preparing the earth, later used metaphorically to denote innovation."