ebb and flow

Idioms  

1. A decline and increase, constant fluctuations. For example, He was fascinated by the ebb and flow of the Church's influence over the centuries. This expression alludes to the inward and outward movement of ocean tides. [Late 1500s]

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Example Sentences

There are signs this is more than the normal ebb and flow of executive reshuffling.

From The Wall Street Journal

Research suggests that pills which flatten the natural ebb and flow of fertility can dampen shifts in attraction that typically occur across the menstrual cycle, potentially altering initial mate choice.

From BBC

Finally, Mr. Muhly’s conclusion, a gorgeous early-music-infused quartet for Death, offers consolation in an ebb and flow that feels like breathing.

From The Wall Street Journal

This doesn't mean you should question the natural ebb and flow of a long term relationship.

From BBC

At the same time, he acknowledged that the decline was likely also the result of other factors that govern the ebb and flow of crime.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• oscillate
• seesaw
• vary
• veer
• waver