What does “Grease the skids” mean?

"Grease the skids" means to apply lubrication or take actions to make something go smoothly or easily.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He greased the skids for the new project by securing funding in advance.

Example

The manager greased the skids for the team's success by providing them with all the necessary resources.

Example

She greased the skids for her promotion by consistently exceeding expectations in her work

Is “Grease the skids” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Grease the skids” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Grease the skids” effectively in context?

You can use "Grease the Skids" to describe the act of making something go smoothly or easily. It implies taking actions or making preparations to facilitate a process or achieve a desired outcome. For example, if someone secures funding in advance to ensure a project's success, you might say, 'He greased the skids for the new project by securing funding in advance.'

1Project Management
The manager greased the skids for the team's success by providing them with all the necessary resources.
2Career Advancement
She greased the skids for her promotion by consistently exceeding expectations in her work.
3Event Planning
They greased the skids for the conference by arranging all the logistics well in advance.

Similar phrases to “Grease the skids”:

Smooth the way

To remove obstacles or make a path easier for someone or something

Example

She smoothed the way for her team by resolving potential conflicts in advance.

Clear the path

To remove obstacles or create favorable conditions for progress

Example

He cleared the path for the new initiative by addressing any potential roadblocks.

Lubricate the process

To make a process or system work more smoothly or efficiently

Example

They lubricated the process by implementing automation and streamlining workflows.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Grease the skids” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Grease the Skids" is unknown.

Is “Grease the skids” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Grease the Skids" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe the actions taken to make a process or situation go smoothly.

What tone does “Grease the skids” have?

"Grease the Skids" conveys a tone of efficiency and effectiveness. It suggests taking proactive measures to ensure a favorable outcome.

Can “Grease the skids” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Grease the Skids" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of making things easier or smoother. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He greased the skids for the new project.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "grease the skids"!' to imply taking actions to make something go smoothly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

facilitate
simplify
smooth out
pave the way
make things easier

Antonyms

hinder
obstruct
complicate
impede
create obstacles