Word
springboard
Phoneticsspring·board, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɹɪŋˌbɔɹd/
UK/spɹˈɪŋbɔːd/
Definition
n. something that helps you start a new project or reach a higher level of success. It can also be a physical board used in jumping or diving.
n. a device used in diving or gymnastics to propel the performer into the air; figuratively, a starting point or catalyst for a significant development or career advancement.
Examples
“The new funding was a springboard for her business.”
“The young athlete used the springboard to perform a perfect dive into the pool.”
“The publication of her first novel served as a springboard for a successful career in screenwriting, allowing her to transition seamlessly between the two mediums.”
Examples
simple
“The new funding was a springboard for her business.”
contextual
“The young athlete used the springboard to perform a perfect dive into the pool.”
complex
“The publication of her first novel served as a springboard for a successful career in screenwriting, allowing her to transition seamlessly between the two mediums.”
Real-World Examples
“It was hardly the sort of springboard from which to launch a promotion campaign.” “Instead, they’ve been used as a springboard for the political ambitions of Sarah Cooper-Lesadd.” Etymology
From spring + board.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/springboard