The phrase "to gain a foothold" means to establish a position or a starting point in a certain situation or field. It is like finding a strong place to stand on in order to advance or make progress.
In the midst of Hyundai's eventual success in gaining a foothold in the US market, the brand debuted a six - passenger concept car called the Portico in 2005. (thenewswheel.com)
It can work as a daily preventive, helping you maintain your health when you are at your best, by ensuring harmful infections and bacteria don't gain a foothold on your body. (nutrasilver.com)
Gangster Squad (R for profanity and graphic violence) Mob saga, set in the Forties, revolving around the efforts of a half - dozen detectives to prevent the Mafia from gaining a foothold in Los Angeles. (kamwilliams.com)