Words / C1

FUT-ing/ˈfʊtɪŋ/

A footing is a secure basis for standing, a relationship, or an argument: on an equal footing, lose your footing, a legal footing. Basis and standing are cousins; a foundation (already in the dictionary) is often larger and more structural. Do not redraft the slogan and claim the inquiry is now on firm ground.

Meaning

A secure basis for a relationship, argument, or standing; also how you stand.

Examples

• “The inquiry found its footing when the badge log was opened, not when the slogan was redrafted.”
• “Basis is everyday. Footing can also be how you plant your feet. A foundation is already in this course. Branding is paint. A log is evidence. Open the file; then the slogan if you still want it.”

Good to know

A secure basis / standing. Everyday: basis. Close: foundation (already in the dictionary). Also physical (not falling). A slogan is not ground.

Near in meaning

basis

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