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Region: General | Usage example: Whenever a startup grows there are always ups and downs.

Ups and downs

Meaning

Alternating periods of success and difficulty.

Usage

Describes the natural fluctuations of life or business.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

A simple description of going up and down hills or paths.

Appears in 19th-century travel narratives.

Related Idioms

Don't count your chickens

Don't assume success until it actually happens.

Out of the woods

No longer in danger or difficulty.

Light at the end of the tunnel

Sign of hope after a long difficulty.

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.