The spelling of the phrase "more downstream" is relatively straightforward. "More" is pronounced /mɔr/ and refers to an increased amount or quantity of something. Meanwhile, "downstream" is pronounced /daʊnstriːm/ and refers to the direction that a river, stream, or other body of water flows towards. Put together, "more downstream" means going further in the direction that a river or stream is flowing. This phrase is commonly used in discussions related to water management, ecology, and environmental science.
More downstream is a comparative phrase used to describe a location or action that is situated or occurring farther along in the direction of a flowing stream or river. It refers to a point that is located closer to the mouth of a river or further away from its source. The term is often used metaphorically to convey the idea of progressing or advancing in a particular process or sequence.
In a literal context, "more downstream" describes a position that is downstream relative to another point along the course of a river. It indicates movement or flow towards the end of the river. For example, if two towns are located along a river, and Town A is "more downstream" than Town B, it means that Town A is situated closer to the river's mouth compared to Town B.
When applied metaphorically, "more downstream" suggests progression towards a later stage or step in a process. It implies a movement or development towards a more advanced or evolved state. For instance, in a production line, if a product undergoes multiple stages of processing, the one occurring "more downstream" refers to a step that occurs later in the process, closer to the final stage.
Overall, "more downstream" portrays a directionality that either refers to a physical location in relation to a river's course or symbolizes progression in a sequence or process towards a more advanced or mature state.
The phrase "more downstream" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two words: "more" and "downstream".
"More" is derived from the Old English word "māra", which means "greater" or "larger". It has been used in English since the 12th century.
"Downstream" is a compound word, combining "down" and "stream". "Down" comes from the Old English word "dūne", meaning "hill" or "slope", and "stream" refers to a current of water. "Downstream" is commonly used to describe the direction in which a river or stream flows.
Therefore, "more downstream" simply means "further in the direction of the current or flow of a river or stream".