stepping-stone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For now, Cole just wants to repay the faith rather than see Cesena as a stepping stone to home.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

Although the astronauts will not land on the moon, Artemis II mimics early Apollo missions that were designed as a stepping stone to test all of the equipment and procedures before making the daring landing.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

For Painter, whose program thrives by developing players year-over-year instead of serving as a stepping stone for future NBA stars, Smith’s evolution has been the perfect proof of concept.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Brunson said the win was a stepping stone as the Knicks approach the midpoint of the season in third place in the Eastern Conference, behind the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics.

From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026

But that was itself a mere stepping stone to greater things.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik