Toehold Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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toehold

[ˈtəʊhəʊld ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

financial market

A toehold is a small but significant stake in a company, usually less than 5% of the total shares outstanding. It is often used as a strategic position to gain influence or control over the company.

Synonyms

interest, ownership, stake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
toehold	Used to describe a small or initial position in a market or situation that someone hopes to build upon. Often used in business or competitive scenarios. The company managed to secure a toehold in the Asian market with its low-cost products. She used her internship as a toehold to eventually land a full-time position at the firm.
stake	Refers to a share or financial involvement in a business or venture. Can also imply risk or personal investment in an outcome. He has a large stake in the company and is deeply concerned about its future. Investors with a stake in the project were eager for updates.
interest	Refers to a person's involvement or concern in a particular activity, business, or area. Can also imply financial stake without implying ownership. He has a significant interest in renewable energy ventures. Their interest in the startup was driven by its innovative technology.
ownership	Describes the act, state, or right of possessing something. Often used in legal, business, or personal property contexts. She took full ownership of the project from start to finish. They transferred ownership of the car to the new buyer.

Examples of usage

A hedge fund acquired a toehold in the company to push for changes in management.
The toehold investment allowed the activist investor to have a say in the company's decision-making process.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

climbing

In climbing, a toehold refers to a small indentation or protrusion on a rock or wall that a climber can use to support their weight. It is essential for maintaining balance and making progress.

Synonyms

foothold, grip, step.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
toehold	Used when referring to a very small or initial position from which further progress can be made. Often used in business or project contexts to indicate the first small step towards something bigger. The startup gained a toehold in the competitive tech market. They needed a toehold before they could expand their operations globally.
foothold	Describes a secure position, often slightly stronger than a toehold, from which further progress can be made. Used in both literal and figurative contexts. Climbers looked for a foothold on the steep rock face. The company established a strong foothold in the European market.
grip	Emphasizes holding onto something firmly, either physically or metaphorically. Indicates control or possession of a situation or object. She lost her grip on the slippery handle. He managed to get a strong grip on the company's finances.
step	Refers to an action taken, often in a sequence, to achieve a goal. Commonly used in process descriptions or to denote physical movement. Every step of the procedure must be followed carefully. She took a step towards her dreams by enrolling in the course.

Examples of usage

The climber found a secure toehold and began to ascend the steep cliff.
She carefully searched for a stable toehold before making the next move.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'toehold'

The term 'toehold' originated in the 19th century, combining 'toe' (referring to the front part of the foot) and 'hold' (indicating a grip or support). It initially had literal meanings related to footholds and grips in physical activities like climbing. Over time, the term evolved to have metaphorical applications in various contexts, such as finance and business.