break ground

verb4

1. •
   To begin digging in the earth at the start of a new construction, or, originally, for cultivation.

   • They broke ground on the new library last month.
2. •
   (figurative) To initiate a new venture, or to advance beyond previous achievements.

   • The invention breaks ground in its programming and its structure.
3. •
   To lift off the sea bottom when being weighed.
4. •
   To separate from the ground on takeoff; to become airborne.