ENGLISH
REFERENCE

swim upstream

idiom
Meaning

To opt for a difficult course of action when a simpler or safer alternative is available; to make an unwise decision against sound advice.


Examples
SIMPLE

He likes to swim upstream by ignoring everyone's advice.

CONTEXTUAL

Starting a business in this economy is like swimming upstream, but she is determined to make it work.

COMPLEX

By choosing to challenge the established industry standards, the young innovator knew he would be swimming upstream against a tide of skepticism.

Anchors to
Related idioms1entry
  1. 01

    swim with sharks

    To operate among dangerous people.

© 2026 English Reference