ebb and flow

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]

Example Sentences

Izenberg says he was stunned by the ebb and flow.

From Los Angeles Times

Realizing, however, the sun will keep rising and setting, that tides will ebb and flow, that pollsters and pundits will continue issuing their prognostications to an eager and ardent audience, here are some suggestions for how to assay their output.

From Los Angeles Times

Longer races, which have time to ebb and flow, develop a narrative and have a span of time for events to happen within.

From BBC

It’s this ebb and flow between real talk and humor that defines “Upper Classy,” Alonzo’s most personal — and political — project yet.

From Los Angeles Times

Martin Tooth: "Utter farce to decide an international cricket match on the basis of a five-over innings. We all know cricket is about the ebb and flow of an innings. No room for that in five overs."

From BBC

Related Words

• oscillate 
• seesaw 
• vary 
• veer 
• waver