Main entry: beachhead, foothold
Definition: an initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments
Usage: the town became a beachhead in the campaign to ban smoking outdoors; they are presently attempting to gain a foothold in the Russian market
Definition: a place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing
Main entry: bridgehead, foothold
Definition: an area in hostile territory that has been captured and is held awaiting further troops and supplies
Usage: an attempt to secure a bridgehead behind enemy lines; the only foothold left for British troops in Europe was Gibraltar