plant the seeds (of something)

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plant the seeds (of something)

1. To do something that ensures a certain outcome in the future, especially an unfortunate or tragic one. They've been planting the seeds of their own downfall with their anti-consumer practices over the last few years.
2. To cause someone to have certain thoughts or feelings, usually negative ones. The over-zealous policing of opposing opinions has planted the seeds of discontent among the population.
See also: plant, seed
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

plant/sow the ˈseeds of something

start a process which will develop into something large, important, etc: What first planted the seeds of doubt in your mind? ♢ The seeds of conflict were sown when oil was discovered on the border between the two countries.
See also: of, plant, seed, something, sow
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
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References in periodicals archive ?
"In managing our resources and in sustainable development, we plant the seeds of peace."
Seeds of peace
Part of his stated rationale for invading Afghanistan and Iraq was to topple authoritarian regimes in both countries and plant the seeds of democracy.
invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq was to plant the seeds of democracy in the region and
Are Islam & democracy compatible? Democracy is taking hold in some parts of the Muslim world. But in others, especially the Middle East, the prospects are unclear
Our goal is to plant the seeds of a smarter community in the minds of young people.
Feed the roots: economic development is a family affair
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