stepping-stone

See also: steppingstone and stepping stone

English

Noun

stepping-stone (plural stepping-stones)

1. Alternative form of stepping stone
   • 1960 November, P. Ransome-Wallis, “Modern motive power of the German Federal Railways: Part Three”, in Trains Illustrated, page 678:

     As I have said, it is not the intention of the Bundesbahn to use the diesel as a stepping-stone between steam and electric traction—a policy which, in the light of the excellent results obtained with modernised steam locomotives, it regards as uneconomical and unnecessary.

   • 2021 January 13, Paul Clifton, “Delivering a basis for rail changes”, in RAIL, issue 922, page 32:

     "Yes, it is much more Government-controlled now. That is a stepping-stone towards what we all want, which is the Government stepping away again.