on stable footing

USAGE SUMMARY

"on stable footing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is secure, established, and well-grounded. For example: "Since John took over the company, it has been on stable footing and seen a marked improvement in performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But Mr. McGreevey said the budget was an important first step in putting the state's finances on stable footing.

The New York Times

With the help of government support and the incredible efforts of our team, we are now on stable footing, positioned for profitability in 2010 and beyond".

The New York Times

Officials in New Jersey and New York say the federal government must move quickly to put the flood insurance program back on stable footing, even if it means increasing the federal deficit.

The New York Times

Despite signs of recovery, the economy is by no means on stable footing.

Forbes

(See "Bernanke: The End Is Near").. Getting the U.S. banking system back on stable footing would certainly help matters, and investors appear to be reserving judgment until the results of the government's stress tests come out and detail the capital needs of 19 major banks.

Forbes

But if the housing market was gaining ground on stable footing, then why is it that first-time home buyers and owner occupiers aren't participating.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

In this context, balance movements may be the most sensitive indicator of the suitability of a perch design with respect to stable footing on perch, whereas resting position and standing on perches are likely to be related to thermoregulatory adjustment in behaviour.

Applied Animal Behaviour Science

If that's the case, let's get on with government and keep the economy on a stable footing.

The Guardian

Travelodge has traded well since the financial crisis, but the deal will put its future on a stable footing by strengthening its balance sheet and reducing the interest rate on its debt.

Independent

That is why our administration has worked to put our relationship on a stable footing.

The New York Times

As a result of our hard work, both the Evening Standard and the Independent titles are on a stable footing".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on stable footing" when you want to emphasize that an entity (e.g., a company, an economy, a relationship) has overcome initial difficulties and is now in a secure and reliable state.

Common error

Avoid using "on stable footing" to describe temporary improvements or short-term gains. This phrase indicates a fundamental and lasting sense of stability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on stable footing" functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying verbs to describe the state of something being secure and well-established. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys a sense of stability and reliability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on stable footing" is a common and effective way to communicate that something is secure, reliable, and well-established. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and business. While the phrase can refer to different things, depending on the context, and several alternative phrases such as "on solid ground" and "well-established" can be used, understanding its scope and using it appropriately will ensure clear and impactful communication. Ludwig's examples provide valuable context, while the writing guidance helps avoid common mistakes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a secure footing

Very similar, simply swaps 'stable' for 'secure', maintaining nearly identical meaning.

on solid ground

Similar to "on stable footing", but can also metaphorically refer to being in a situation where one is confident and secure.

on a firm foundation

Emphasizes the underlying support and structural integrity, suggesting a robust and reliable base.

on a sound basis

Emphasizes the rationality and logic behind the stability, suggesting a well-reasoned foundation.

in a secure position

Highlights the safety and lack of threat or risk associated with the current state.

in a strong position

Highlights the power and influence derived from a stable and secure situation.

well-established

Focuses on the long-term existence and acceptance of something, implying a proven track record.

on even keel

Suggests a balanced and steady state, free from disruptions or fluctuations.

in good shape

Suggests that something is in a healthy and well-maintained condition, ready to face challenges.

on a level playing field

Implies fairness and equal opportunity, where all participants have a fair chance to succeed due to the stability of the environment.

FAQs

How can I use "on stable footing" in a sentence?

You can use "on stable footing" to describe situations where something has become secure and reliable. For example, "After the restructuring, the company was finally "on stable footing"".

What are some alternatives to saying "on stable footing"?

Alternatives include "on solid ground", "well-established", or "in a secure position", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "on a stable footing" or "on stable footing"?

"On stable footing" is the correct and more common usage. The article 'a' is unnecessary in this phrase.

What does it mean for a company to be "on stable footing"?

It means the company has overcome significant challenges, has a secure financial position, and is operating reliably and sustainably.