toe-hold

A climber finds a small toe-hold on the rock face.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small support for the toes: "toe-hold" refers to a small ledge or indentation that provides enough space for the toes to gain a temporary grip, especially when climbing.
   • A slight initial advantage: In a figurative sense, "toe-hold" means a small but strategic position or opportunity that allows one to begin an activity or gain a foothold in a competitive or challenging situation.
   • A wrestling hold: In sports, particularly wrestling, "toe-hold" is a type of hold applied to the opponent's foot or toes to gain control or cause pain.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The climber searched for a toe-hold on the steep rock face. (A small support for the toes to maintain balance.)
  • The startup gained a toe-hold in the market by offering a free trial. (A slight initial advantage to begin competing.)
  • The wrestler applied a painful toe-hold to force a submission. (A hold used in wrestling.)

Advanced Usage

• "to gain a toe-hold": to secure a small but crucial position or opportunity.

  • The new political party struggled to gain a toe-hold in the conservative district. (To achieve a minimal level of influence or presence.)

• "to lose a toe-hold": to lose a precarious position of advantage.

  • The company lost its toe-hold in the industry after the scandal. (To lose a small but valuable position.)

Variants and Related Words

• Toehold (n): an alternative spelling of "toe-hold," used interchangeably.
  • He found a toehold on the crumbling wall. (A similar meaning to toe-hold.)
• Foothold (n): a more secure and stable position, often used figuratively.
  • The army established a foothold in the region. (A stronger position than a toe-hold.)

Synonyms

• Grip: a firm hold or grasp.
• Ledge: a narrow shelf or projection providing support.
• Entry point: a means of starting or entering a situation.
• Advantage: a condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable position.

Related Idioms

• Get a toe in the door: to make a small but important start in a field or organization.

  • She got a toe in the door by accepting an unpaid internship. (To secure a minimal opportunity to begin a career.)

• Hold on by one's fingertips: to maintain a precarious position with great effort.

  • The team held on by their fingertips after losing their star player. (To barely maintain a position, similar to a toe-hold.)