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Region: US | Usage example: When the market recovers, a rising tide lifts all boats.

A rising tide lifts all boats

Meaning

Overall improvement benefits everyone.

Usage

Used to promote inclusive prosperity initiatives.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Maritime observation that higher seas raise every vessel.

Popularized by JFK's economic advisers in the 1960s.

Related Idioms

Rising tide

A force that lifts all participants equally.

Turn the tide

Reverse the direction of events.

Time and tide wait for no man

Time moves forward regardless of our wishes.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.