also staging-post
(~s)
1.
A ~ on a long journey is a place where people who are making that journey usually stop, for example to rest or to get new supplies. (BRIT)
The island is a staging-post for many visiting yachts on their way south.
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2.
If you describe an action or achievement as a ~, you mean that it helps you reach a particular goal that you have. (BRIT)
Privatisation is a necessary ~ to an open market.
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