GOES DOWNHILL Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "goes downhill" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation or circumstance that starts to deteriorate, worsen, or decline in quality, success, or efficiency. It implies a negative transformation, signaling a downward trend or a loss of value. Often used colloquially, this phrase draws an analogy to the physical concept of going downhill, where it becomes easier for an object to move downwards due to the pull of gravity, challenging the conventional notion of progress and improvement.
When something "goes downhill," there is typically a noticeable shift from a positive state to a negative one. This decline can manifest in various aspects of life, such as personal relationships, businesses, sports teams, or even one's own mental or physical well-being. Examples include a once-thriving company experiencing financial losses, a previously harmonious marriage deteriorating into constant arguments, or an athlete's performance declining rapidly.
It is important to note that the phrase does not always imply an irreversible situation; it simply denotes that the situation is worsening or moving in an unfavorable direction. It serves as a powerful metaphorical tool to communicate the troubling shift in circumstances and goes beyond just describing a negative turn, also encapsulating a sense of disappointment, frustration, or regret.
Common Misspellings for GOES DOWNHILL
- foes downhill
- voes downhill
- boes downhill
- hoes downhill
- yoes downhill
- toes downhill
- gies downhill
- gkes downhill
- gles downhill
- gpes downhill
- g0es downhill
- g9es downhill
- gows downhill
- goss downhill
- gods downhill
- gors downhill
- go4s downhill
- go3s downhill
- goea downhill
- goez downhill
Etymology of GOES DOWNHILL
The phrase "goes downhill" is an idiomatic expression that means deteriorating or getting worse. It originates from the literal act of descending a hill or slope, where it is generally easier and requires less effort compared to going uphill. The word "downhill" is derived from the Old English word "dūnhyl" or "dūnhill", which combines "dūn" (meaning "hill") and "hyl" (meaning "hill"). Over time, the phrase evolved and started to be used metaphorically to describe a decline or a negative change in a situation, thus giving rise to the idiom "goes downhill".
