1
Core action
Create conditions that make a later development possible or easier.
Example
The pilot study paved the way for a nationwide survey.
pave the way for
/peɪv ðə weɪ fɔː/ · payv thuh WAY forenabling-cause phrase
Create conditions that make a later development possible or easier.
Use pave the way for to express this relationship precisely: create conditions that make a later development possible or easier.
What pave the way for Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Cheaper sensors may pave the way for continuous monitoring.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The agreement paved the way for deeper regional cooperation.
Use pave the way for Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The pilot study paved the way for a nationwide survey.
Cheaper sensors may pave the way for continuous monitoring.
The agreement paved the way for deeper regional cooperation.
Precision Matters
Pave the way for overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
pave the way for
vs.Means create conditions that make a later development possible or easier.
lead to
Means cause, produce, or result in an outcome or later development.
pave the way for
vs.Means create conditions that make a later development possible or easier.
give rise to
Means cause a condition, event, or result to develop or occur.
pave the way for
vs.Means create conditions that make a later development possible or easier.
bring about
Means cause an event, condition, or change to happen.
pave the way for
vs.Means create conditions that make a later development possible or easier.
contribute to
Means help cause, support, or advance an outcome without necessarily being its sole cause.
Test pave the way for in Context
The trial creates conditions that make later adoption easier.
1
The successful trial could ___ wider adoption of the technology.