lead up to

/ liːd /

verb

1. to act as a preliminary or introduction to

2. to approach (a topic) gradually or cautiously

Idioms and Phrases

Prepare gradually for, result in gradually, as in These events clearly led up to the coup, or His remarks led up to the main point of the speech, that he was going to resign next year. [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

Family and friends had flown out, and in the lead up to the wedding activities like paragliding and boat days had been booked, so the costs had really added up.

From BBC

But by and large, yes, it’s in the lead up to the first album and the tour that followed that, as far as I can tell.

From Los Angeles Times

The escalating events lead up to decisive moments this week, starting with an emergency meeting of the UC Board of Regents on Monday afternoon.

From Los Angeles Times

In the lead up to the film’s release, some right-wing commentators have been in an uproar over ‘Superman’s’ alleged immigrant-friendly politics.

From Los Angeles Times

Calli says she always notices the difference in her body in the lead up to her period.

From BBC