Grease the wheels

usgb
verb

To make things easier or go more smoothly.

She donated some money to the school to grease the wheels of her son's application process.
Visual representation of "grease the wheels" - To make things easier or go more smoothly.

Often appears as...

  • grease the wheels of a process
  • grease the wheels of business

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "grease the wheels"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Figurative Use

The phrase is never about literal grease or wheels. It's about making situations less difficult.

Illustration for Figurative Use
Networking can grease the wheels for a job seeker.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Often Positive

Usually used in a positive context where efforts are made to improve processes or relationships.

Illustration for Often Positive
Regular team meetings help to grease the wheels of project management.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Instant

Greasing the wheels implies a process; the action makes future tasks easier, not instantaneous.

Illustration for Not Instant
Proper planning will grease the wheels when we implement the new system.
Visual representation of the word "Grease the wheels"

Never forget "Grease the wheels"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top