die Weichen für
Translation
to set the course for, to pave the way for, to lay the groundwork for
Examples
Wir stellen die Weichen für die Zukunft.
We are setting the course for the future.
Die Regierung stellt die Weichen für Reformen.
The government is paving the way for reforms.
Grammar Patterns
stellen die Weichen ((für sth.)) to set the course for sth. We must set the course for our future.
Similar Words
den Grundstein legen für (to lay the foundation for), den Weg ebnen für (to pave the way for)
Etymology
From 'die Weiche' (railway switch/points). Just as a switch directs a train, this phrase means to direct the future course of something.
Memory Tips
Visualize railway points ('Weichen') being switched. This single action determines the entire path of the train, just as a key decision sets the course for the future.