put (one) in the way of (something)
1. To provide one the opportunity to obtain or achieve something. Sometimes our fears can put us in the way of profound personal growth.
2. To put one at risk of encountering or receiving something unwanted or unpleasant. Many fear that this decision could put the country in the way of war. Our family's lifestyle choices put us in the way of many snide remarks from people in the community.
put someone in the way of
give a person the opportunity of. dated