set the stage
Create the groundwork
To set the stage is to create conditions that make something possible or likely to happen.
The phrase comes from theater, where the stage must be prepared before a performance.
In general use, it describes any preparatory action: The economic crisis set the stage for political upheaval.
Her early research set the stage for the breakthrough.
- pave the wayPrepare conditions for advancement
- prepareMake ready beforehand
- facilitateMake something easier
- orchestrateArrange complex undertakings
- lay the groundworkEstablish necessary preliminaries
arrange · catalyze · organize · establish · get the ball rolling · lead the way · open the door · foreshadow · paving the way · prime · foster · usher in · introduce · prelude · set the scene · roll out the red carpet · design · lay a foundation
- getting readyget ready, readying, be prepared, equipping, gear up
- preludesprelude, overture, chorale prelude, introduction, intro
- cautioncareful, be careful, cautious, caution, watch out
- getting startedgetting started, start, begin, first steps, basics
- Come beforeprecede, predate, lead, go first, antedate
set the stagewrap up
Complete and conclude
conclude · culminate · denouement · bring down the curtain · finish
set the stagederail
Force off course
sabotage · undermine · nip in the bud · obstruct · hinder
set the stageclimax
Point of greatest intensity
denouement · resolution · conclusion · finale · wrap up