pave the way

Definition

To make future progress or development easier.

Etymology

From the idea that once a paved path has been laid, travel on the route is easier and smoother for others.

Example Sentences

• "Germany's development of rocket weapons paved the way for human controlled spaceflight."
• "A perverting of this Firſt and Original Chriſtian Principle, by Political and Aſpiring Church-Guides, […] did not only pave the way for Popery, but both laid the Foundation thereof and finiſh'd its Superſtructure: […]"
• "The gratification of one inordinate pursuit paves the way for another; and no sooner is the present vain wish indulged, than a future imagined necessity arises, equally importunate."