paved the way
Made it possible
Paved the way means created conditions that made something possible or easier.
The metaphor suggests clearing and smoothing a path for others to follow: Her research paved the way for modern genetics.
Usually followed by "for": The treaty paved the way for lasting peace.
- pioneeredOriginated or developed first
- broke groundStarted a construction project
- initiatedStarted or inducted
- startedPut into action
- ledGuided or commanded
blazing a trail · first steps · opened doors · facilitated · enabled · groundwork · set the stage · ushered · precursor · sparked · established · foundation · precedent · breakthrough · turning point · cornerstone · prelude · bridge
paved the wayobstructed
Blocked from proceeding
impeded · hindered · thwarted · prevented · put up barriers
paved the waycame after
Arrived subsequently
brought up the rear · jumped on the bandwagon · trailed behind · imitated · copied
pave, paved, paves, paving, pavement, pavements, paver, pavers, unpaved