gateway drug

• Substance ou activité qui est censée conduire à l'usage de substances plus dangereuses ou plus addictives ; souvent utilisé métaphoriquement pour désigner un premier pas vers une habitude plus grave.

A substance or activity that is believed to lead to the use of more dangerous or addictive substances, often used metaphorically to describe an initial step toward a more serious habit.

1. Introductory substanceB2formal

   A substance, typically a mild or legal drug, that is believed to lead to the use of more dangerous or illegal drugs.

   drogue d'introduction

   • Some experts argue that marijuana can be a gateway drug.
   • The study examined whether alcohol acts as a gateway drug.
   • Parents are often warned about the dangers of gateway drugs.

2. Metaphorical introductionB2informal

   An initial experience or activity that leads to more extreme or serious involvement in a particular area.

   drogue d’initiation

   • For many, playing video games was a gateway drug to programming.
   • Collecting stamps can be a gateway drug to a lifelong interest in history.
   • Her first small investment was a gateway drug to day trading.