be on the way up

/biː ɒnðə wˈeɪ ˈʌp/

/biː ɑːnðə wˈeɪ ˈʌp/

[phrase]

to be on the way up

[PHRASE]

to be rising up to a higher position or level

to [be] on the way up definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "be on the way up" and when to use it?

The phrase is thought to have originated in the 19th century, when it was used to describe the progress of a ship sailing up a river. The ship would be said to be "on the way up" as it got closer to its destination. The phrase has since been used to describe any kind of progress or improvement. It is often used in professional or social contexts to describe individuals or organizations that are achieving greater recognition, success, or influence.

Examples

1. The local bakery has been on the way up since they introduced their new line of pastries.

2. So rather than drawing it as an up down shape, which is the normal shape of stress, I’m drawing it as a scoop up, because her pitch is on the way up.

Nearby words