The phenomenon of advancing in one's career or gaining more responsibility despite performing poorly or failing, often through connections or organizational dysfunction.
When someone gets a better job or more power even though they did a bad job — instead of being fired, they get promoted.
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
To advance to a higher position or gain greater influence despite repeated failures or incompetence, often due to connections or corporate culture.
"Despite mismanaging two major projects, he somehow failed up into a senior vice-president role."
A relatively modern idiomatic expression, often used critically in media, business, and political commentary. More common in American English. Describes a systemic or cultural phenomenon in organizations. Often appears in journalism and social commentary.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "fail up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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