a good footing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a good footing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a stable or advantageous position in a situation, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "After months of hard work, the company finally has a good footing in the competitive market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

And appreciated it on different levels, so we were off on a good footing.

The Guardian - Film

Financially, the new group will get off on a good footing.

The New York Times

'I managed to get a good footing, but when I looked back I could see neither of their heads.

The Guardian

He called Cameron "determined and pragmatic", and said his majority in parliament puts him on a good footing to keep the UK in Europe.

Independent

Biology and physiology students will find they have a good footing from which to transfer to medicine, while others go to work in research laboratories or the pharmaceutical or biotech industries.

Independent

We need to make sure that clubs who have been around for 140 or 150 years are on such a good footing that a change of owner would not matter".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Of course, we won't go two-footed either but we want to put a good foot in".

Independent

If you commit, you should be a good foot soldier.

The New York Times

"It's safer for them, and it's a good foot in the door for me".

The New York Times

Most of the time we rode on a good foot and a half.

The New York Times - Travel

"He really got us off on a good foot the other night.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a good footing" when you want to convey a sense of stability, security, or advantage in a situation or endeavor. It's suitable for describing both physical and metaphorical positions.

Common error

Don't use "a good footing" interchangeably with phrases that imply absolute success or completion. It represents a solid starting point, not a guaranteed outcome. Focus on the stability aspect rather than projecting future results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a good footing" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or preposition to describe a state of stability or advantage. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

21%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a good footing" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a stable or advantageous position. Ludwig AI indicates that it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business settings. The phrase conveys a sense of security and readiness, making it suitable for describing both physical and metaphorical situations. Alternatives include "a solid foundation" and "a strong position", each offering slightly different nuances. When using "a good footing", remember to focus on the stability aspect and avoid overstating its implications for future success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a solid foundation

Emphasizes the base or groundwork that supports future success or stability. It is less about immediate positioning and more about long-term reliability.

a firm basis

Focuses on the underlying principles or reasons that make something stable or justifiable. It is more abstract and less about physical or immediate circumstances.

a strong position

Highlights the relative advantage one has in a competitive situation. This is less about inherent stability and more about outperforming others.

an advantageous situation

Similar to a strong position, but focuses on the overall favorability of the circumstances rather than direct competition.

a secure base

Stresses the safety and reliability of the starting point. This is more about protection from risk than active advantage.

a stable platform

Suggests a level of consistency and reliability that allows for further development or action. It's slightly more technical or formal.

a promising start

Emphasizes the positive outlook at the beginning of an endeavor. This is less about current stability and more about future potential.

a favorable condition

Highlights the beneficial nature of the circumstances. It may not necessarily imply stability, but rather positive influences.

a sound beginning

Focuses on the quality and correctness of the initial stages. It emphasizes careful planning and execution from the outset.

a decent start

Indicates an adequate, but not necessarily exceptional, initial position. It is less ambitious and more about meeting minimum requirements.

FAQs

How can I use "a good footing" in a sentence?

You can use "a good footing" to describe a stable or advantageous position. For example, "The new policy gave the company "a good footing" in the market."

What are some alternatives to "a good footing"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "a solid foundation", "a firm basis", or "a strong position".

What's the difference between "a good footing" and "a good start"?

"A good footing" emphasizes stability and security, while "a good start" focuses on the positive beginning of something. "A good start" implies potential, while "a good footing" implies readiness.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "a good footing"?

It is appropriate to use "a good footing" in contexts where you want to highlight the initial stability or advantage that something has, such as in business, sports, or personal relationships.