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pave the way
/peɪv ðə weɪ/◆idiom
to prepare for future success or progress
The new policy will pave the way for economic growth.
The new policy will create conditions that will lead to economic growth.
formalinformal
To create the necessary conditions or take steps to make something possible or easier in the future.
The discovery of renewable energy sources paved the way for a sustainable future.
The discovery of renewable energy sources made a sustainable future possible by creating the right conditions.
His hard work paved the way for his children to attend university.
His hard work created opportunities that allowed his children to attend university.
This idiom is often used in formal and informal contexts to describe actions that facilitate future success or progress.
Collocations
pave the way forto create conditions that make something possible
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'pave the way' when describing actions that create opportunities or conditions for future success or progress.
Gold Rule
Correct Usage
Ensure that the phrase is used to describe actions that facilitate future success or progress, not just any action.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from the literal act of paving a road to make travel easier. Over time, it took on a metaphorical meaning of creating conditions for future success.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe actions that facilitate future progress or success. It can be used in various domains, including business, politics, and personal development.
Word Breakdown
pave
to cover with a smooth, hard surface
rootthe way
a path or route
phraseEnglish Dictionary