# pave the way

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/pave-the-way
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To make future progress or development easier.

## Examples

- Her hard work paved the way for a promotion.
- The early experiments paved the way for modern medicine.
- The treaty, signed after years of negotiation, paved the way for peaceful relations between the two nations.

## Origin

Derived from the literal practice of laying a paved path to facilitate easier and smoother travel for those following the route. The figurative use rests upon the transition from uneven ground to a prepared surface, ensuring that subsequent progress requires less effort than the initial clearing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.