up and down

• Expression générale décrivant un mouvement dans des directions alternées, des fluctuations d'état ou une recherche minutieuse. Peut aussi désigner un état de changements constants ou d'activité.

A versatile phrase used to describe movement in alternating directions, fluctuating conditions, or thorough searching. It can also refer to being in a state of constant change or activity.

1. Moving verticallyA2formal

   Moving alternately upward and downward.

   de haut en bas

   • The elevator went up and down all day.
   • The boat bobbed up and down on the waves.
   • He was jumping up and down with excitement.

2. Fluctuating or changingB1informal

   Alternating between good and bad states; inconsistent.

   en dents de scie

   • The stock market has been going up and down recently.
   • His mood is always up and down.
   • The weather has been up and down this week.

3. Thoroughly or completelyB2informal

   Used to emphasize that something is done in every direction or aspect.

   de fond en comble

   • I searched the house up and down for my keys.
   • They looked up and down the street for the lost dog.
   • He knows the city up and down.