stepping stone

noun

1. one of a series of stones acting as footrests for crossing streams, marshes, etc

2. a circumstance that assists progress towards some goal

Example Sentences

Just as hybrid cars were a stepping stone towards electric vehicles; plane-makers are now also experimenting with hybrid technology.

From BBC

Martínez, for his part, has repeatedly said that he is not here to be a stepping stone for anyone and will take advantage of the platform to make a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

"Juniors is just a stepping stone. I'd love to win a junior Slam - I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to - but every time my team reminds me it doesn't mean anything."

From BBC

But it can be a “stepping stone” for overwhelmed young people who aren’t sure where to turn or how to ask for help, she said.

From Los Angeles Times

He considered applying to the summer internship programme - seen as a good stepping stone to a job in the civil service after university - last year but was put off by how exclusive it seemed.

From BBC

Related Words

• aid 
• channel 
• equipment 
• factor 
• instrument 
• measure 
• mechanism 
• medium 
• mode 
• power 
• process 
• route 
• step 
• system 
• tactic 
• technique 
• vehicle