upturn / updraft
Loading your saved state.
upturn
A positive development or noticeable upswing in a particular area, for example in the economy, politics, or for a person.
Nach dem Sieg verspürte die Mannschaft neuen Aufwind für die restliche Saison.
After the victory, the team felt a new upturn in momentum for the rest of the season.
The word is made up of 'auf' (up) and 'Wind' (wind). This literal meaning of an upward-blowing wind also helps you understand the figurative meaning of a positive impulse or upswing.
Der Falke stieg im Aufwind immer höher.
The falcon rose higher and higher in the updraft.
The literal meaning (air current) is found in texts about weather, flying, or birds. The figurative meaning (positive turnaround) is used in contexts such as the economy, politics, sports, or personal careers.
Im Segelflugzeug sucht man gezielt nach Aufwinden.
In a glider, you deliberately look for updrafts.
In the figurative meaning, 'Aufwind' (upturn) is often combined with verbs such as 'bekommen' (to get), 'verspüren' (to feel), or 'erleben' (to experience). The expression 'im Aufwind sein' means that someone or something is currently very successful.
Die neue Chefin sorgte für frischen Aufwind im Team.
The new boss brought fresh momentum to the team.
In the literal meaning, 'Aufwind' (updraft) is often used with the verb 'nutzen' (to use). It describes how birds or glider pilots use rising air to glide.
Der Paragleiter nutzte den Aufwind, um an Höhe zu gewinnen.
The paraglider used the updraft to gain height.
decline / receding
'der Rückgang' and 'der Aufwind' describe opposite developments. You use 'Rückgang' when numbers, success, or interest decrease. You use 'Aufwind' when something develops positively and becomes stronger again. 'Aufwind' often sounds figurative and fits well with the economy, politics, projects, or even a person. So the contrast is: 'Rückgang' shows a downward movement, while 'Aufwind' shows a new positive upward movement.
Nach dem neuen Auftrag bekommt die kleine Firma wieder Aufwind.
After the new contract, the small company is gaining momentum again.
Wegen des schlechten Wetters gab es im Sommer einen Rückgang beim Verkauf von Eis.
Because of the bad weather, there was a decline in ice cream sales during the summer.