things are looking up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things are looking up" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to express optimism and is often used in the context of a difficult situation or hardship that is slowly improving. For example, "At first, I was worried about my job prospects after college, but now things are looking up and I'm seeing some great opportunities becoming available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Things are looking up, biographically.

The New Yorker

But things are looking up for Mali.

The New York Times - Sports

Things are looking up in Tennessee.

The New York Times

Things are looking up at home, too.

The Economist

Things are looking up for BP.

The New York Times

So, things are looking up?

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Things are looking up--at least for the time being.

Science Magazine

Things were looking up.

The Economist

But things were looking up.

The New Yorker

Things were looking up for almost everyone.

The New York Times

The mood changed, things were looking up.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things are looking up" to express optimism, particularly after a period of difficulty or hardship. For example, "After a slow start, sales are increasing, and things are looking up."

Common error

While a useful idiom, avoid overuse of "things are looking up". Vary your language with alternatives like "circumstances are improving" or "the situation is getting better" to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things are looking up" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that a situation is improving or becoming more positive. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a common way to express optimism.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "things are looking up" is a common idiomatic expression used to convey optimism about an improving situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and generally appropriate for neutral contexts like news and media. While very common in news and media, it appears less frequently in more formal or scientific writing. To maintain variety in your writing, consider using alternatives such as "circumstances are improving" or "the situation is getting better".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

circumstances are improving

Focuses on the state of the situation itself, rather than a general outlook.

the situation is getting better

Directly states that the situation is improving, without idiomatic flair.

there's a silver lining

Implies that a difficult situation has a positive aspect emerging.

the tide is turning

Suggests a shift from negative to positive momentum.

brighter days are ahead

Emphasizes a positive future outlook.

prospects are brightening

Highlights that future possibilities are becoming more favorable.

the outlook is positive

Focuses specifically on a positive future view.

things are on the upswing

Highlights an upward trend or positive change.

a change for the better is occurring

More formal way to communicate that circumstances are improving.

light at the end of the tunnel

Suggests improvement after a long period of difficulty.

FAQs

What does "things are looking up" mean?

The phrase "things are looking up" means that a situation is improving or becoming more positive after a period of difficulty or stagnation.

How can I use "things are looking up" in a sentence?

You can use "things are looking up" to express optimism about a situation that is improving. For example, "The economy was struggling, but now "things are looking up"."

What are some alternatives to saying "things are looking up"?

Some alternatives to "things are looking up" include phrases like "circumstances are improving", "the situation is getting better", or "there's a silver lining".

Is "things are looking up" a formal or informal expression?

"Things are looking up" is generally considered an informal expression suitable for everyday conversation and writing. In more formal contexts, you might prefer alternatives such as "circumstances are improving".