1
general::
Phrase(s): break ground (for something)
to start digging the foundation for a building. • The president of the company came to break ground for the new building. • This was the third building this year for which this company has broken ground. • When do they expect to break ground at the new site?
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Also, break new ground. 1. Begin digging into the earth for new construction of some kind. For example, When will they break ground for the town hall? This usage alludes to breaking up the land with a plow. [Early 1700s] 2. Take the first steps for a new venture; advance beyond previous achievements. For example, Jeff is breaking new ground in intellectual property law. [Early 1700s]
American Heritage Idioms