Definition

Noun: 1. A secure placement of the feet; a foothold: A physical position or surface that provides support for standing or moving. 2. The basis or foundation on which something is established or operates: The fundamental conditions or terms that define a situation, agreement, or relationship. 3. A position or status in relation to others; the nature of a relationship: The specific terms or conditions characterizing the interaction between people, groups, or entities.

Examples of Usage

• Meaning 1 (Physical Support):
  • The hiker lost her footing on the wet rock and slipped.
  • The ladder provides a secure footing against the wall.
• Meaning 2 (Foundation/Basis):
  • The new manager put the department on a sound financial footing.
  • The peace talks began on an equal footing, with both sides present.
• Meaning 3 (Position/Relationship):
  • They are on a first-name footing, which shows their informal relationship.
  • The two companies are on a competitive footing in the market.

Advanced Usage

• "to be on a ... footing (with)": This is the most common advanced construction. An adjective is used to describe the nature of the basis or relationship.
  • The two departments need to be on a cooperative footing to succeed.
  • After the argument, they were no longer on a friendly footing.
• "to gain/get a footing": To establish a secure position, either physically or metaphorically.
  • The startup struggled to gain a footing in the competitive industry.
  • He finally got a footing on the steep cliff face.

Variants and Related Words

• Foot (noun): The part of the body that makes contact with the ground. This is the root word from which "footing" is derived.
• Foothold (noun): A very close synonym for the first meaning (physical support), often used in climbing or military contexts. It can also metaphorically mean an initial position that allows for further progress.

Synonyms

• Basis: The underlying support or foundation for an idea or process.
• Foundation: The base on which something stands or is built, both literally and figuratively.
• Position: One's relative place or status.
• Standing: One's status, rank, or reputation.
• Foothold: A secure position for the foot; an initial position that provides an opportunity for advancement.

Related Phrases

• "on an equal footing": Having the same rights, status, or opportunities as others.
  • All applicants will be considered on an equal footing.
• "on a firm/solid/sound footing": Established on a stable, reliable, or financially secure basis.
  • The reforms put the country's economy on a firmer footing.
• "on a war footing": Organized or prepared for war or for a similarly intense effort.
  • The factory was put on a war footing to produce essential supplies.

Noun

1. a place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing
2. a relation that provides the foundation for something
   • they were on a friendly footing
   • he worked on an interim basis
3. status with respect to the relations between people or groups
   • on good terms with her in-laws
   • on a friendly footing