a launchpad for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a launchpad for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that serves as a starting point or foundation for further development or success. Example: "The new program is designed to be a launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The app also acts as a launchpad for new artists.

The Guardian - Tech

The success gave Bernhard a launchpad for bigger things.

The Guardian

Militant groups there have used the peninsula as a launchpad for rocket-attacks on Israel.

The Economist

But its credibility as a launchpad for Oscar contenders may be on the wane.

The Guardian - Film

The stage he played has become, in its current configuration, a launchpad for major theatrical talent.

The Guardian - Books

The one you're doing now is a launchpad for the next.

The New York Times

It can help you hone your skills and be a launchpad for your own imaginative journeys.

The Guardian

Woolmark hopes the revived award will provide a launchpad for more new young designers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The seven-day NHS soundbite was a launchpad for the cost-cutting exercise that this contract is.

The Guardian

True, it has not offered its territory as a launchpad for the Anglo-American ground assault on Iraq.

The Guardian

And, possibly, planning to use his low self-esteem as a launchpad for some sort of hideous romantic attack.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a launchpad for", ensure the image aligns with your intended meaning. This phrase implies not just a starting point, but also a sense of upward trajectory and potential for significant advancement.

Common error

Avoid using "a launchpad for" when the subsequent development isn't substantial or doesn't clearly benefit from the initial stage. It's less appropriate for minor transitions or sideways moves.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a launchpad for" functions as a noun phrase that often acts as a predicate nominative or an appositive, describing something that provides an initial impetus or foundation. Ludwig AI confirms that it is commonly and correctly used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a launchpad for" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe something that provides a starting point or foundation for future success. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives such as "a springboard for" and "a catalyst for" exist, "a launchpad for" specifically implies upward momentum and significant advancement. When using this phrase, consider the strength of the subsequent development and ensure it truly benefits from the initial phase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a springboard for

Uses the metaphor of a springboard to emphasize the boost or impetus provided.

a catalyst for

Highlights the role of initiating or accelerating a process or change.

a foundation for

Focuses on the base or groundwork that allows further development.

a stepping stone to

Emphasizes progress and advancement towards a goal.

a starting point for

Directly indicates the beginning or origin of something.

an impetus for

Stresses the driving force or motivation behind something.

a vehicle for

Suggests that something is a means of achieving a particular outcome.

an opportunity for

Highlights that something provides chance to do or achieve something.

a pathway to

Implies a route or method for reaching a destination.

a gateway to

Suggests an entrance or access point to something larger or more significant.

FAQs

How can I use "a launchpad for" in a sentence?

Use "a launchpad for" to describe something that serves as a starting point or catalyst for future success or development. For example, "The competition was "a launchpad for" her career".

What can I say instead of "a launchpad for"?

You can use alternatives like "a springboard for", "a catalyst for", or "a foundation for" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a launchpad for" in formal writing?

Yes, "a launchpad for" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing initiatives or projects with the potential for significant growth and impact.

What is the difference between "a stepping stone to" and "a launchpad for"?

"A stepping stone to" implies a series of steps toward a goal, while "a launchpad for" suggests a more immediate and powerful start that propels something forward.