stepping-stone
Means of advancement
A stepping-stone is a raised stone providing a place to step when crossing a stream or muddy ground.
Figuratively, it's an intermediate stage or means of advancement: She used the internship as a stepping-stone to a full-time position.
The implication is that the stepping-stone itself isn't the destination—just a way to get there.
Raised performance platform
- phaseDistinct period in sequence
- stepFoot movement forward
- transitionChange from one state
- bridgeStructure spanning an obstacle
gateway · springboard · launchpad · platform · rung · waypoint · intermediate · threshold
Narrow natural watercourse
- streamSteady continuous flow
- fordWalkable river crossing
- crossingPoint where paths intersect
- riverLarge flowing watercourse
garden-path · pond · walkway · flagstone · boulder · rock · paver · bridge
Supervised professional trial period
- entry-levelRequiring minimal prior experience
- promotionRank increase or publicity
- networkingBuilding professional relationships
- mentorshipGuidance from experienced person
apprenticeship · qualification · training · experience · resume · portfolio · credential · opportunity
Foundational preparation for something
- baseSupporting bottom structure
- underpinningFoundational support beneath
- preparationArranging things in advance
- prerequisiteRequired prior condition
bedrock · framework · scaffold · support · basis · anchor · platform · infrastructure
stage
Raised performance platform
- phaseDistinct period in sequence
- stepFoot movement forward
- transitionChange from one state
bridge · gateway · springboard · launchpad · platform · rung · waypoint · intermediate · threshold · juncture
creek
Narrow natural watercourse
river · garden-path · pond · walkway · flagstone · boulder · rock · paver · bridge · hop
internship
Supervised professional trial period
- entry-levelRequiring minimal prior experience
- promotionRank increase or publicity
- networkingBuilding professional relationships
mentorship · apprenticeship · qualification · training · experience · resume · portfolio · credential · opportunity · breakthrough
groundwork
Foundational preparation for something
- baseSupporting bottom structure
- underpinningFoundational support beneath
- preparationArranging things in advance
prerequisite · bedrock · framework · scaffold · support · basis · anchor · platform · infrastructure · fundamental
waypoint
Navigation reference location
- stopoverBrief halt mid-journey
- legAmbulatory limb
- checkpointInspection station on route
transit · passage · crossing · detour · layover · station · intermediate · midpoint · trek · expedition
stepping-stonedestination
Intended arrival point
ultimate goal · endpoint · terminus · finish line · culmination
stepping-stonestumbling block
Obstacle causing difficulty
obstacle · barrier · roadblock · impediment · hindrance