lead up to
Be the events or actions that happen before something important, or slowly get to a difficult topic.
Meanings
Of events: to happen in the period before a significant moment and contribute to it.
"Tensions had been rising in the months leading up to the outbreak of the conflict."
"In the days leading up to the invasion, diplomats made last-ditch attempts to avert war."
— Common news media phrasing; representative of BBC and broadsheet reporting style
To approach a subject gradually or indirectly before stating the main point.
"Stop making small talk — I can tell you're leading up to something. Just say it."
Used to describe the period before an event ('in the weeks leading up to the election') or the act of approaching a topic gently or indirectly before saying the main point ('What are you leading up to?'). Very common in both written and spoken English.
Commonly used with
Forms
Understand "lead up to" better
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "lead up to" on Looplines