expression, godan verb (-ru)
obstacles are cleared; the way is paved
Idiomatic expression meaning that external obstacles or preliminary difficulties have been removed, making it easier to achieve one's main objective. Often used when circumstances align favorably.
周囲の反対がなくなり、ようやく外堀が埋まった。
With the opposition gone, the obstacles were finally cleared.
先に取引先を説得したので、あとは社内の承認を得るだけだ。外堀はもう埋まっている。
I've already persuaded the client, so now I just need internal approval. The groundwork is already laid.