upward

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

To hazard a generalization, the archetypal American novel in the 20th century was a story of upward mobility, whereas the novel in Europe was one of decline.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

Then energy costs climbed as a result of the war in Iran, putting upward pressure on inflation fears and then mortgage rates.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

“I think everyone in here,” May said, “appreciates upward mobility.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Then comes lift, like lemon zest, a splash of vinegar, something to pull everything upward.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

Today, though, with her mouth curved into a stiff upward bow and her eyes wide, she looked more like she was meeting a ghost.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith