gateway drug
The term "gateway drug" is often used in discussions about addiction and substance abuse, highlighting the potential risk of progressing from less harmful substances to more dangerous ones.
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Definition
C1Addiction Studies
(technical, academic)A substance whose use is believed to increase the likelihood of progressing to more dangerous or addictive substances.
Example
- Many experts consider marijuana a gateway drug due to its potential to lead users to experiment with harder substances.
B2General
(figurative)An interest or activity that can lead to deeper involvement in more serious or complex areas.
Example
- For many, casual gaming serves as a gateway drug to more immersive and time-consuming video games.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "gateway drug":