The idiom “Get foot in the door” means: To make a small beginning, especially in a job or a new venture, that can lead to greater opportunities (किसी नौकरी या नए प्रयास में एक छोटा सा कदम रखना, जो आगे चलकर बड़े अवसरों की ओर ले जा सकता है)
To take the first step toward success or a goal, often in a way that makes it easier to continue (सफलता या लक्ष्य की ओर पहला कदम बढ़ाना, जो आगे बढ़ने में मदद करता है)
Getting an initial opportunity that leads to further chances or progress (प्रारंभिक अवसर प्राप्त करना जो आगे और अवसरों या प्रगति की ओर ले जाता है)
This idiom is often used when someone is trying to enter a new field or gain access to something, even though they are just starting out. It reflects the importance of the first step or initial entry that can open doors to bigger possibilities.
Hindi Equivalent:
“पहला कदम रखना” (Taking the first step)
“शुरुआत करना” (Making a start)
“सुरुआत का रास्ता खोलना” (Opening the path for the beginning)
Detailed Explanation
This idiom is used when: Describing someone starting a new journey or project, especially with the hope of future success
Referring to an initial opportunity or opening that could lead to further chances
Talking about the first step in any process, such as starting a new job, entering a new market, or beginning a new relationship
Common contexts: Career advancements, business opportunities, entering new fields, networking, job interviews, early success in a new venture
Real-Life Examples
Starting a Career
English: “I finally got my foot in the door at the marketing agency – now I’m hoping for bigger projects!”
Hindi: “मैंने आखिरकार मार्केटिंग एजेंसी में पहला कदम रखा है – अब मैं बड़े प्रोजेक्ट्स की उम्मीद कर रहा हूँ!”
New Business Opportunity
English: “Getting my foot in the door at the startup allowed me to learn from the best in the industry.”
Hindi: “स्टार्टअप में पहला कदम रखना मुझे उद्योग के सबसे अच्छे लोगों से सीखने का अवसर प्रदान करता है।”
Networking for Growth
English: “Attending this conference will help me get my foot in the door with potential clients.”
Hindi: “इस सम्मेलन में भाग लेने से मुझे संभावित ग्राहकों के साथ पहला कदम रखने का मौका मिलेगा।”
Psychological & Social Insight
Why This Phrase Matters:
✓ It emphasizes the importance of taking the first step, even if the outcome isn’t immediate or guaranteed
✓ It reflects the idea that initial efforts, no matter how small, can lead to bigger opportunities and long-term success
✓ It encourages taking action and making the most of the initial opportunities that come your way
When to Use This Phrase: When someone starts a new venture or job and is hopeful for future success
Describing the initial steps that lead to future growth or opportunity
In discussions about making an entry into a competitive field or market
Usage Tips This idiom is often used in informal conversations or motivational contexts
It’s a great way to describe the process of beginning something new, even when the future is uncertain
It can be used to encourage someone who is hesitant to take the first step toward a goal
Similar Expressions
English | Hindi |
---|---|
“Start from scratch” | “शून्य से शुरुआत करना” |
“Take the plunge” | “जोखिम उठाना” |
“Break the ice” | “बरफ तोड़ना” |
Cultural Perspectives
Western View: In Western cultures, getting one’s “foot in the door” is often used to describe breaking into competitive industries or fields. It can apply to anything from entertainment to business. The focus is on taking that critical first step that can lead to further advancement.
Indian Context: In India, this idiom often applies to career or educational advancements. The idea of taking that “first step” is also important in family and social settings, as one starts something new—whether it’s a marriage, a business, or a professional journey.
Global Relevance: This idiom is used across various cultures to describe any kind of new beginning that leads to greater opportunities. Whether in careers, relationships, or personal growth, the first step is seen as crucial to success.
Reflection Questions:
- Can you think of a time when you took a small step toward something bigger?
- How did getting your foot in the door lead to greater opportunities for you?
- What are the challenges you faced when starting something new, and how did you overcome them?