A stepping stone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A stepping stone" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that helps someone progress or advance towards a goal or achievement. Example: "Completing this internship is just a stepping stone to my dream job in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

A stepping stone to what?

The Guardian - Opinion

A stepping stone of sorts.

Huffington Post

Not just a stepping stone.

The New Yorker

Everyone else is a stepping stone.

The New Yorker

"This is a stepping stone.

The Guardian

YouTube isn't a stepping stone.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

It's a stepping-stone for him".

The New York Times - Sports

Thus no evidence of a stepping-stone effect is found.

IZA Journal of Migration

"We're not looking to be a stepping-stone for anyone.

BBC

They were not necessarily a stepping-stone to permanent freedom.

Huffington Post

Look at failure as a stepping-stone to success.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing educational paths, emphasize how each course or project builds upon the previous one, serving as "a stepping stone" to advanced learning and expertise.

Common error

Avoid portraying routine tasks or minor achievements as major "stepping stones". Ensure the described action genuinely contributes to a significant future goal to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A stepping stone" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It describes something that facilitates progress, advancement, or transition from one stage to another. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "A stepping stone" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe something that aids in progressing toward a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its proper use. It's versatile, appearing frequently in news, scientific, and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly supports its role as a facilitator of future success, avoiding exaggeration of its importance. Consider alternatives like "launchpad" or "springboard" for varied expression. With a high expert rating, "A stepping stone" remains a reliable and effective phrase in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A launchpad

Suggests a more immediate and powerful boost towards a goal.

A springboard

Implies a more dynamic and energetic start or advancement.

A pathway

Emphasizes the directional aspect of progress, like a route to follow.

A bridge

Highlights connection, something that connects two different states.

An intermediate stage

Focuses on its position within a sequence of events or process.

A facilitator

Highlights its role in making progress easier.

A vehicle for advancement

Makes the phrase more about moving up.

A foundation

Stresses the importance of having a base for development.

An opportunity for growth

Frames the term to show it is helpful for improvement.

A preliminary measure

Highlights its role in readiness, preparation and anticipation.

FAQs

How can I use "A stepping stone" in a sentence?

The phrase "A stepping stone" typically describes an intermediate stage or action that facilitates progress towards a larger goal. For example, "This internship is "a stepping stone" to my dream career".

What are some alternatives to saying "A stepping stone"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a launchpad", "a springboard", or "a pathway" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "stepping stone" or "steppingstone"?

"Stepping stone" is typically written as two words. While "steppingstone" might be understood, it is less common and can sometimes be seen as an error.

What is the difference between "A stepping stone" and "An end in itself"?

"A stepping stone" signifies something that helps you move forward, while "an end in itself" /s/an+end+in+itself is something you pursue for its own sake, without further goals. One is a means to an end, and the other is the end itself.