such a foothold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "such a foothold" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong position or advantage gained in a particular context, often in discussions about competition or influence. Example: "The company has established such a foothold in the market that it is difficult for new competitors to enter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Theories abound as to why right-wing ideology has such a foothold in Tröglitz.

Independent

Until then, few people realized that the party -- a more reasonably spoken, less confrontational version of the neo-Nazi National Front, which had its greatest influence in the 1970's -- had found such a foothold here.

The New York Times

A little history review would also have been nice, in terms of how the game — which has been an American institution at least since Alexander Cartwright's Knickerbockers in 1845 (nobody believes that Abner Doubleday story anymore) — traveled to Asia and gained such a foothold there.

The New York Times - Arts

The set-piece gives such a foothold in the modern game that you simply cannot afford to have your lineout functioning at 53%.

BBC

But I don't think that entirely explains why anti-vaccination has taken such a foothold.

Huffington Post

Audacious indeed, given that the c-section has managed such a foothold in Hollywood, even for singleton deliveries.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

For such companies, a foothold in the nation's largest school district can be enormously profitable, not only generating substantial income but also providing a platform for marketing and media attention.

The New York Times

They fear that inflation now has such a firm foothold that it could take a serious downturn to stop it.

The New York Times

He said that he was proud that Indian companies like Tata, the owner of the British carmaker Jaguar Land Rover, had such a strong foothold in the British economy but that he expected a reciprocal arrangement.

The New York Times

It has offered some insight as to why EFM has such a strong foothold in professionals' practice and in their provision of care to women during childbirth, despite the evidence that has accumulated in research studies on the comparative effects of EFM and IA.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

It appears that the attitudes of PCTs have varied considerably, and that their behaviour can make the difference between such providers gaining a foothold in the NHS or failing to do so [ 45].

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "such a foothold", ensure the context clearly indicates what the foothold is in relation to. For example, specify the industry, market, or area of influence.

Common error

Avoid using "such a foothold" when the actual position is weak or unstable. The phrase implies a significant degree of establishment and influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a foothold" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as an object of a verb, often indicating the extent or degree to which someone or something has gained a secure position. Ludwig AI examples highlight its usage in various contexts, emphasizing the strength or significance of this established presence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "such a foothold" is a noun phrase denoting a significant and established position or advantage. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and finds its primary usage in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. The phrase effectively conveys the idea of a strong and relatively secure presence, implying that it would be difficult for others to dislodge the entity holding that foothold. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly specifies what the foothold is in relation to and avoid overstating the significance if the position is actually weak or unstable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong position

Emphasizes the power and advantage gained.

a solid base

Highlights the secure and reliable nature of the established position.

a firm foundation

Focuses on the stability and permanence of the established position.

an established presence

Focuses on the visibility and recognition achieved.

a strategic advantage

Emphasizes the tactical benefit gained.

a dominant position

Suggests a leading and controlling role.

a competitive edge

Highlights the benefit over rivals.

an entry point

Implies an initial opportunity to access a market or field.

a launching pad

Suggests a starting point for further growth and development.

a seat at the table

Emphasizes inclusion and influence in decision-making.

FAQs

How can I use "such a foothold" in a sentence?

You can use "such a foothold" to describe a strong position or advantage gained. For example, "The company has established "such a foothold" in the market that it is difficult for new competitors to enter".

What are some alternatives to "such a foothold"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "strong position", "solid base", or "established presence".

Is it better to say "such a foothold" or "a strong foothold"?

"Such a foothold" emphasizes the degree or extent of the established position, while "a strong foothold" focuses on the robustness and resilience of the position. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to have "such a foothold" in a market?

Having "such a foothold" in a market implies that a company or entity has gained a significant level of establishment, influence, and competitive advantage, making it challenging for others to dislodge them.