developmental step
noun phraseUK /dɪˌvɛləpˈmɛntəl stɛp/
US /dɪˌvɛləpˈmɛntəl stɛp/
A small change or action that helps someone or something grow and get better.
Learning to walk is an important developmental step for a baby.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A stage in a process of building or improving something.
Adding a new feature was a key developmental step for the app.
3. A planned action in a series that moves a project forward.
The team treated the pilot test as a developmental step before the full launch.
4. A change in a child's abilities that shows they are growing.
Speaking in short sentences is a normal developmental step for toddlers.