gain a foothold; base oneself on
Meanings
2 senses · 8 examplesverb
to gain a foothold; to establish oneself; to be able to survive
Often used to describe securing a stable position in a new environment, job, or market.
The company has just entered the market and hasn't gained a firm foothold yet.
He finally found a place to establish himself in the city.
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Alien species find it difficult to establish themselves in the local ecological environment.
The product must be innovative to gain a foothold in the international market.
verb
to base oneself on; to proceed from; to be situated in
formalOften used in formal contexts to describe a perspective, principle, or starting point for action.
Policies should be based on the grassroots and oriented towards the masses.
We should proceed from reality to solve problems.
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His viewpoint is based on extensive investigation and research.
This company's success is based on technological innovation.