a strong footing

USAGE SUMMARY

"a strong footing" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It is used to mean that something has a strong base or a secure foundation; a place from which to launch or start a journey. For example, "The company now has a strong footing in the market and is ready to expand their business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"Manufacturers are ending the year on a high and should enter 2011 on a strong footing," Lee Hopley, the chief economist at the EEF, said.

Independent

Given its international stature, one would naturally assume that primary education is on a strong footing in the city and the state.

The Guardian

The Irish manufacturing sector has opened this year on a strong footing with near record growth as firms position themselves for rising customer demand, a survey has revealed.

The Times

And while the acquisition of Newbridge gave Alcatel a strong footing in Canada, Lucent would establish its customer base in the United States, the world's biggest telecommunications market.

The New York Times

Although China's banks appeared to emerge from the global financial crisis on a strong footing, analysts in the West have raised questions for years about the true condition of many Chinese banks.

The New York Times

The move by the bond rating agency was a blow to Merrill, whose officials have portrayed the multimillion-dollar charge against earnings as a step that puts the firm on a strong footing to compete in the 1990's.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Most of the attributes that make the Giants' Lawrence Tynes one of the best kickers in the N.F.L. are not surprising: A strong foot.

The New York Times - Sports

Gecko's foot hairs exhibit significant frictional anisotropy that enables a strong foot grip in a specific direction and an easy detachment in the opposite direction.

Applied Adhesion Science

More posts by this contributor Following a record year, Illinois startups kick off 2019 on a strong foot SoftBank's Vision Fund inches closer to $100B.

TechCrunch

Wall Street started the day on a strong foot, encouraged by Ford Motor's surprisingly strong quarter, and better-than-expected economic data.

Forbes

Engaging a large population on its Android platform will give the company a competitive edge over Apple and a strong foot holding in the growing Indian mobile market.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strong footing", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being supported or established. For example, "The new management team provided a strong footing for the company's future growth."

Common error

Avoid using "a strong footing" in overly abstract or metaphorical contexts where the imagery of a physical base is lost. Instead, opt for phrases like "solid foundation" or "firm basis" for abstract concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong footing" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "strong" modifies the noun "footing". It acts as a predicative complement, indicating a state of readiness or stability. As Ludwig AI says, "a strong footing" means something has a strong base or a secure foundation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

9%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strong footing" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate stability, security, or preparedness. Ludwig AI confirms its meaning as having a solid base or secure foundation. It is frequently found in news, media, and scientific contexts, exhibiting a neutral register suitable for various situations. While it can be considered interchangeable with related phrases like "a firm foundation" or "a secure base", it's important to ensure context-appropriateness to convey the intended meaning effectively. As such, avoid abstract contexts to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm foundation

Emphasizes the idea of a solid base or starting point.

a secure base

Highlights the aspect of safety and stability.

a solid groundwork

Focuses on the preparatory work that ensures success.

a stable position

Indicates a condition of being steady and not easily moved.

a good starting point

Stresses the advantage of having a favorable initial position.

a strategic advantage

Highlights the benefit of having a plan for success.

a competitive edge

Focuses on the benefit of being better positioned than competitors.

a favorable position

Emphasizes the positivity and benefits of the existing situation.

a robust platform

Indicates a strong and resilient base for growth or development.

a sound basis

Focuses on the rationality and reliability of the foundation.

FAQs

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

Use "a strong footing" to describe a situation or entity that has a solid foundation or is well-prepared for future challenges. For instance, "The company's innovative products gave it "a strong footing" in the competitive market".

What are some alternatives to "a strong footing"?

You can use alternatives like "a firm foundation", "a secure base", or "a solid groundwork" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a strong footing"?

While generally acceptable, "a strong footing" might sound awkward in highly formal or literary contexts. Consider the tone of your writing and choose a more suitable alternative if necessary.

What's the difference between "a strong footing" and "a strong foothold"?

"A strong footing" implies a stable and well-established position, while "a strong foothold" suggests a more tenuous but secure initial position from which to advance. A foothold is often the beginning of establishing "a strong footing".