Come/godown/up in the world

usgb
phrase

To improve one's social status or standard of living.

With the new job and a successful business, he has come up in the world.
Visual representation of "come/godown/up in the world" - To improve one's social status or standard of living.

Often appears as...

  • come up in the world quickly
  • come up in the world dramatically

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "come/godown/up in the world"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Climb

The phrase suggests a metaphorical rise in social standing, similar to climbing a ladder.

Illustration for Metaphorical Climb
He really came up in the world after marrying the CEO's daughter.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

The phrase doesn't refer to physical movement, but to social or financial improvement.

Illustration for Not Literal
After years of hard work, she had come up in the world.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Potential Irony

Can be used ironically if someone's effort to improve status has clearly failed.

Illustration for Potential Irony
Bought a fancy car to come up in the world, yet he's still living in his parent's basement.
Visual representation of the word "Come/godown/up in the world"

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