English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
In the ascendant
Meaning
The idiom "in the ascendant" means to be on an upward course or progress. It refers to a situation, person, or thing that is increasing in power, importance, or influence. This phrase can be used to describe a business, government, or individual who is gaining more control or dominance over their field or industry.
Usage
- The company's profits have been steadily rising, making it clear they are in the ascendant.
- After years of struggling to gain recognition, the activist's movement has finally found itself in the ascendant.
- The city council's decision to invest in public transportation has put them on a trajectory towards success and power, placing them firmly in the ascendant.
- Despite facing significant challenges, the athlete managed to pull themselves out of the doldrums and into the ascendant, eventually winning the championship.
- The new CEO's vision for the company has taken them from mediocrity to success, placing them squarely in the ascendant. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. For example, it could be used to describe a political leader who is gaining more power and influence, or a business that is experiencing growth and expansion. It can also refer to an individual who is developing their skills or abilities and becoming more proficient in their field.
Roots and History
The earliest known use of this idiom can be traced back to the Middle Ages. In medieval times, ascendant refers to something that is rising upwards towards the heavens. Over time, the phrase evolved to refer to an upward course or progress in secular matters. In modern English, "in the ascendant" became popular during the 16th century and has since been used in literature, political speeches, and everyday language.
Synonyms in English
- On the rise
- Gaining ground
- Advancing
- Rising to prominence
- In the ascendant
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: en marcha arribada (arriving)
- French: sur la montée (rising)
- German: aufsteigend (rising)
- Italian: salendo (rising)
- Portuguese: ascendente (ascending)