How do you say “A stepping stone” in German?
The closest natural German equivalent is ein Sprungbrett, which literally means “a springboard”. English speakers use a stepping stone to mean something that helps you progress towards a larger goal. A close German match for an opportunity that helps you advance. It suggests a boost rather than a small step. Register: neutral. Usage frequency: common.
Closest natural German
ein Sprungbrett
/aɪn ˈʃpʁʊŋbʁɛt/
- Literal meaning
- “a springboard”
- Register
- neutral
- How often it's used
- common
- Equivalence
Near-exact equivalent
92 out of 100
What a native German speaker would actually say
“Ein Sprungbrett für die Karriere” is something that helps a career develop. A small role can provide that opportunity.
The image is more energetic than the English stone. It does not mean success comes automatically or without further work.
How close is the meaning?
- Meaning5 out of 5
- Tone5 out of 5
- Context5 out of 5
- Literal similarity3 out of 5
These ratings are editorial approximations, not measurements.
In context
English
Playing at local cafés was a stepping stone to larger concerts.
German
Auftritte in örtlichen Cafés waren ein Sprungbrett für größere Konzerte.
English
This evening course could be a stepping stone to a new career.
German
Dieser Abendkurs könnte ein Sprungbrett für eine neue Karriere sein.
Related expressions
Last updated 2026-11-04