The term 'laid first stone' typically refers to the act of starting a new construction project. However, there are a variety of synonyms that can be used to convey this idea, depending on the context and the specific connotations that the writer or speaker wants to convey. Some examples include 'initiated the project', 'launched construction', 'began building', 'set the foundation', and 'commenced work'. Other possible options include 'started the groundwork', 'put the first brick in place', 'laid the cornerstone', and 'pioneered the construction'. Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on factors such as the tone and style of the writing, the intended audience, and the specific project being referred to.