high-flying success / high-altitude flight
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high-flying success
A phase of great success, rapid rise, or euphoric mood. The term is usually used figuratively for careers, companies, or even personal developments.
Nach der Veröffentlichung ihres Bestsellers erlebte die Autorin einen medialen Höhenflug.
After the publication of her bestseller, the author experienced a high-flying period in the media.
The word is made up of 'Höhe' (height/altitude) and 'Flug' (flight). The figurative meaning of a phase of success comes directly from the literal idea of a flight at great altitude.
Sein beruflicher Höhenflug begann mit einer einfachen, aber genialen Idee.
His professional high-flying success began with a simple but brilliant idea.
The literal meaning refers to things that actually fly, such as birds or airplanes. The figurative, more common meaning can be recognized by the fact that it refers to abstract things such as a career, a company, an economy, or a person's mood.
Der Höhenflug des Adlers war beeindruckend zu beobachten.
The eagle's high-altitude flight was impressive to watch.
In the figurative sense, 'Höhenflug' (high-flying success) is often combined with verbs that describe the beginning or state. Typical phrases are 'einen Höhenflug haben' (to be riding high), 'einen Höhenflug erleben' (to experience a high-flying period), or 'sich auf einem Höhenflug befinden' (to be on a high).
Nach dem Wahlsieg befindet sich die Partei auf einem Höhenflug.
After the election victory, the party is riding high.
The beginning and end of the successful phase are also often described. Fixed expressions are 'zum Höhenflug ansetzen' (to take off / begin a high-flying rise) and 'den Höhenflug beenden/stoppen' (to end/stop the high-flying success).
Die Krise an der Börse beendete den Höhenflug vieler Technologiefirmen.
The stock market crisis ended the high-flying success of many technology companies.
ascent / rise
'der Aufstieg' and 'der Höhenflug' can both describe great success. 'Aufstieg' refers more to the path upward to a better or stronger position. This can happen calmly and over a longer period of time. 'Höhenflug' emphasizes a phase of very great success or strong enthusiasm, often fast and noticeable. The word can also suggest that this phase may not be permanent. Learners may confuse the words because both sound connected to going 'up'. Memory aid: 'Aufstieg' is the way upward; 'Höhenflug' is the successful high point.
Nach dem großen Erfolg der App befindet sich das junge Team im Höhenflug.
After the app's great success, the young team is riding high.
Der Aufstieg zur Abteilungsleiterin war für Sofia das Ergebnis vieler Jahre harter Arbeit.
Sofia's rise to department head was the result of many years of hard work.