smooth the way

smooth the way for (someone or something)

To cultivate favorable conditions for someone to do something or for something to happen. I always take the kids on a fun trip during the last week of summer to smooth the way for their return to school. I've been creating detailed notes about my work routine to smooth the way for whoever will replace me.
See also: smooth, way
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

smooth the way

or

smooth the path

COMMON If someone or something smooths the way or smooths the path for something, they make it easier for it to happen or more likely to happen. It is hoped that the talks will smooth the way to peace in the region. Working closely with parents, teachers can help to smooth the path through the early years of school.
See also: smooth, way
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

smooth the ˈpath/ˈway

make it easier for something to happen: The President’s speech smoothed the way for talks with the rebel leaders.
See also: path, smooth, way
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • (someone or something) promises well
  • a/the feel of (something)
  • (I) wouldn't (do something) if I were you
  • (have) got something going (with someone)
  • a straw will show which way the wind blows
  • a horse of another
  • a horse of another color
  • a horse of another colour
  • accompanied by
  • accompany
References in periodicals archive
He said the Bangladesh customs is working relentlessly to make smooth the ways of implementing Vision-2021 and Vision-2041.
Smart borders needed for seamless trade, travel, transport
there are dozens of things you can do to smooth the ways both of friendship and business relationships.
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