loses footing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loses footing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is losing stability, confidence, or control. Example: "As the debate progressed, he began to lose footing in his arguments, struggling to maintain his position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

HTC loses footing in the mobile market, corporate jet manufacturers turn to emerging markets and Japan looks underground for alternative energy.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In both cases, apparently, a slipped handhold or moment of lost footing was all it took.

The New York Times

But Town's attacks foundered too often on loose crosses or lost footing.

The Guardian - Sport

The story of their lost footing is also the story of something larger — the growing role that education plays in preserving class divisions.

The New York Times

We ride the wave of initial excitement into the glide of communion or the crash of lost footing.

Huffington Post

The trio ignored warning signs by climbing a barricade to take a photo, then lost footing on the slippery granite bottom.

Huffington Post

If you do pass out or even begin to get weak, you could lose footing and be crushed under the rest of the crowd.

WikiHow

We're losing feet".

The New Yorker

He has to have lost foot speed, but he certainly looks fit enough.

The New York Times - Sports

Storekeepers who rent space on the other side of the Venice boardwalk complain that they are losing customers to the sidewalk sellers, or losing foot traffic altogether.

The New York Times

She nearly lost Foot Petals, the fast-growing shoe cushion firm she'd founded two years before, just as she landed her largest order.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "loses footing" to describe a sudden loss of physical balance or, metaphorically, a sudden decline in position, status, or control. For example: "The company loses footing in the market due to the new competitor.".

Common error

Avoid using "loses footing" solely for minor slips or stumbles. The phrase often implies a more significant loss of stability or control than a simple trip. Consider alternatives like "trips" or "stumbles" for less significant events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loses footing" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating a loss of balance or stability, either physically or metaphorically. Ludwig AI shows this phrase appearing in contexts ranging from literal falls to declines in market position.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "loses footing" correctly describes a loss of physical balance or, metaphorically, a decline in position, status, or control. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While versatile, avoid overusing it for minor slips. Alternatives like "slips up" or "loses ground" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

loses balance

Directly relates to physical instability, but can also imply a loss of equilibrium in a broader sense.

slips up

Implies a minor error or mistake that leads to a loss of progress or stability.

stumbles

Refers to a physical misstep, which can be analogous to a mistake in a plan or argument.

missteps

Implies making an error in judgment or action, leading to a setback.

falters

Suggests a weakening or hesitation that causes a loss of momentum or confidence.

loses grip

Similar to losing control, but with an emphasis on a weakening hold or grasp of a situation.

loses control

Indicates an inability to manage a situation or oneself, leading to negative consequences.

takes a tumble

Refers to a physical fall, which can also metaphorically represent a setback or failure.

comes undone

Indicates a breakdown or collapse, often due to internal weaknesses or external pressures.

falls from grace

Suggests a significant decline in status or favor, often due to a mistake or scandal.

FAQs

How can "loses footing" be used metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "loses footing" describes a decline in someone's position, status, or control. For example, "The politician "lost footing" after the scandal was revealed".

What's the difference between "loses footing" and "slips"?

"Loses footing" typically implies a more significant loss of balance or control than "slips". Slipping can be a momentary event, whereas losing footing suggests a more substantial loss of stability.

What can I say instead of "loses footing" in a business context?

In a business context, you might use phrases like "loses ground", "declines", or "falls behind" depending on the specific situation.

Is "loses footing" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "loses footing" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when used metaphorically to describe a loss of position or control. However, choose more precise language depending on your context.