pump priming
Literal meaning: pouring a small amount of water into a pump to start the flow. Used in economics and metaphorically for any initial stimulus.
As an economic measure, the government made public investments to prime the pump.
Figurative extension: something that sets a process in motion or encourages further action. Often used with となる or になる.
彼の一言が議論の誘い水となった。
His single remark became the spark for the discussion.
小さな成功が誘い水になって、彼はさらに努力した。
The small success served as an impetus, and he worked even harder.
The economic stimulus became the trigger for increased consumer spending.
The government used the tax cut as a lever to encourage investment.
The government primed the pump with public investment.