fall up

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To benefit in the long run from what seems initially to be a setback.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

In fact, many of their winning mantras essentially describe the notion of falling up: "I've failed over and over again in my life," Jordan once said, "and that is why I succeed."

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see fall, up.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “fall up” mean?

To benefit in the long run from what seems initially to be a setback.

Is “fall up” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.