bubble under the radar

/bˈʌbəl ˌʌndə ðə ɹˈeɪdɑː/

/bˈʌbəl ˌʌndɚ ðə ɹˈeɪdɑːɹ/

[phrase]

to bubble under the radar

[PHRASE]

to be close to achieving success or popularity, but not quite there yet

to [bubble] under the radar definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "bubble under the radar" and when to use it?

The idiom is thought to have originated in the military, where radar is used to detect objects that are flying or moving. If an object is flying below the radar, it will not be detected by the radar system and will therefore be able to go undetected. In the same way, something that is "bubbling under the radar" is happening or developing but is not being noticed or acknowledged by others. It is used to describe a situation where something or someone is about to achieve success or popularity but has not quite reached that level.

Examples

1. She is currently bubbling under the radar, gaining a small but dedicated following on social media.

2. The young athlete shows great potential and is expected to bubble under the radar until their breakout performance next season.

Nearby words