lead up

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The phrase "lead up" is a verb phrase that means to prepare for something or to create a situation that results in an event happening. It often describes the actions or events that happen before a significant moment or event.

Explanation:

1. Basic Meaning: When we say something "led up" to an event, we mean that certain actions, situations, or events came before and helped to make that event happen.

2. Usage Instructions: You can use "lead up" to describe the process or events before a major event. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Examples:

• Simple Example: "The weeks of practice led up to the big performance." (This means that the practice sessions helped prepare for the performance.)
• Historical Example: "Hitler’s attack on Poland led up to World War II." (This means that the attack was one of the key events that resulted in the start of World War II.)

Advanced Usage:

• In more complex contexts, "lead up" can be used to analyze situations, such as in essays or discussions about history or significant events. For example: "Several political decisions led up to the economic crisis."

Variants:

• Lead-Up (noun): This refers to the period or actions that occur before an event. Example: "The lead-up to the festival was filled with excitement."

Different Meanings:

• While "lead up" primarily refers to the preparation for an event, in some contexts, it can also mean to guide someone in a conversation or situation towards a particular conclusion.

Synonyms:

• Prepare for
• Pave the way for
• Set the stage for

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Pave the way: This is similar to "lead up," meaning to create a situation that makes it easier for something to happen.
• Set the stage: This means to prepare the conditions for something to occur.

Summary:

"Lead up" is a useful phrase to describe the events or actions that precede a significant moment.

Academic

Verb

1. set in motion, start an event or prepare the way for
   • Hitler's attack on Poland led up to World War II

Synonyms

• initiate