secure footing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secure footing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a stable or reliable position, either literally or metaphorically, in various contexts such as business, personal situations, or physical stability. Example: "After months of hard work, the company finally found secure footing in the competitive market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Gail:  My ideal road map for getting Social Security on a secure footing for the very long term would be to lift the cap.

The New York Times

"We are not on secure footing, and the reason is twofold," Mr. Dworkin said.

The New York Times - Arts

They give a moral compass and a secure footing in an ever-changing technological and impersonal world.

The New York Times

Growing up as a mixed-race child, Dr. Han later said, she felt she had a foot in each of two words but a secure footing in neither.

The New York Times

But his down-home style masked a drive for improving the quality of life here and for initiatives that helped put Boston on a secure footing.

The New York Times

While they are not yet on secure footing, the Porters say they are grateful that they are able to continue playing a role in that process.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Ground yourself and make sure you have secure feet.

WikiHow

His food has developed, roaming in the experimental territory marked out by Ferran Adrià – zillion-course menus mainly given over to edible tricks and stunts – before finding a securer footing in the inspiration of the Nordic movement led by René Redzepi.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Bend your knees and secure your footing.

The New York Times

City's transfer budget, despite a more secure financial footing, remained effectively zero.

The Guardian - Sport

Even while the enterprise was put on a secure financial footing, ultimate control never passed from the Sulzberger family.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts like financial stability or personal development, using "secure footing" can effectively convey a sense of confidence and long-term reliability.

Common error

Avoid using "secure footing" in very casual or informal conversations. Alternatives like "stable" or "safe" may be more appropriate in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secure footing" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe a state of stability or reliability. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its use in various contexts, from financial stability to physical security.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "secure footing" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a state of stability and reliability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, it is best suited for neutral to professional registers. When aiming for a more casual tone, consider alternatives like "stable" or "safe". Remember, while "secure footing" effectively communicates confidence and long-term reliability, ensure its usage aligns with the context to maintain clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stable foundation

Emphasizes the aspect of a strong and reliable base, often used in the context of organizations or plans.

firm foundation

Similar to stable foundation but can also refer to the base of arguments, beliefs, or relationships.

sound basis

Implies a logical or rational underpinning, often used in discussions of decisions or policies.

solid ground

Can refer to both physical and metaphorical stability, suggesting a reliable or safe position.

steady position

Highlights the aspect of being unwavering and dependable, often in a professional or personal context.

reliable platform

Suggests a base that can be trusted to support further actions or development.

assured stability

Focuses on the confidence and certainty associated with being in a secure state.

certain footing

Similar to assured stability, suggesting a lack of doubt or risk.

stable circumstances

Highlights the environmental aspects surrounding a place or situation.

established presence

Suggests a recognized and accepted standing, often in a business or social context.

FAQs

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

You can use "secure footing" to describe a stable situation, such as "The company is now on a "secure footing" after restructuring" or to describe physical stability, like "Make sure you have a "secure footing" when climbing the ladder".

What phrases are similar to "secure footing"?

Alternatives include "stable foundation", "firm foundation", or "solid ground", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "more secure footing"?

Yes, it is correct. The comparative form "more secure footing" is used to indicate an improvement in stability or security, for instance, "The new policy aims to put the economy on a more "secure footing"".

What's the difference between "secure footing" and "safe ground"?

"Secure footing" often implies a proactive establishment of stability, while "safe ground" suggests finding an already existing stable condition. Although they're sometimes interchangeable, "secure footing" has a more active connotation.