up and coming: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "up-and-coming" is used to describe someone or something that is gaining prominence or becoming successful in a particular field or area. This expression is commonly used to refer to individuals who show potential for future success or to describe a place or organization that is experiencing growth and progress. For example, a young artist who is quickly gaining recognition for their work could be described as "up-and-coming," as well as a neighborhood that is undergoing revitalization and attracting new businesses. The phrase conveys a sense of optimism and excitement about the potential for future achievements.

The origins of the idiom can be traced back to the mid-19th century. It was first recorded in a novel called "The House of the Seven Gables" by Nathaniel Hawthorne, published in 1851. In the book, Hawthorne used the phrase to describe a young character who was seen as having a promising future. Since then, the expression has gained popularity and is widely used in everyday conversation.

Today, "up-and-coming" is a phrase that is commonly used in various contexts, including in business, sports, and entertainment. It is often used to describe talented individuals who are on the rise in their careers or fields of expertise. For instance, a young entrepreneur who is starting a successful company may be referred to as an "up-and-comer." Similarly, a rising star in the music industry who is gaining popularity would also be described as "up-and-coming."

Alternatively, the idiom "on the rise" can be used interchangeably with "up-and-coming." This expression implies that someone or something is experiencing growth or becoming more prominent. For example, a city with a booming economy and a thriving arts scene could be described as being "on the rise." This idiom emphasizes the upward trajectory and potential for future success.

Similarly, the term "up-and-comer" is a derivative of the idiom "up-and-coming" and is used to specifically describe an individual who is showing promise and potential for future success. This term is often used to refer to someone in the early stages of their career who has already achieved a certain level of success or recognition. For instance, a young actor who has received critical acclaim for their performances would be considered an "up-and-comer" in the film industry.

Another related idiom is "on the up," which is often used to describe someone or something that is experiencing a period of growth or improvement. This phrase can be used interchangeably with "up-and-coming," as it conveys a similar sense of progress and potential for future success. For example, a company that has seen a significant increase in sales and profitability would be described as being "on the up."

Additionally, the expression "come up" can be used in the context of "up-and-coming" to convey the idea of someone or something rising or advancing. This phrase is often used to describe someone who is making progress in their career or someone who is about to achieve success. For example, a young musician who is about to release their first album may be described as "coming up" in the music industry.

The idiom "up-and-coming" is used to describe people or things that are gaining prominence and showing potential for future success. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-19th century, and it has since become a widely used phrase in English language. The phrase is often used to describe rising stars in various fields and industries, as well as emerging cities or organizations that are experiencing growth and progress. It carries a sense of optimism and anticipation, highlighting the possibilities for future achievements. As language and society continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the usage and perception of this idiom may change over time.