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Difference between Down and out and Up and out

admin Confusing Phrases

down and out—

1. said of a person without means of livelihood:

  • “You’ve never been down and out, I imagine, Mr. Forsyte?” “No,” answered Soames.

2. (of business, etc.) lacking resources or prospects:

  • The local housing industry is down and out.

Cf.: down but not out— said of smb. who is down on his luck or suffered a serious setback but feels hopeful:

  • Though analysts feel that Khin Nyunt is down but not out, as of now the chances of his return to power are not bright.

up and out—(UK) convalescent; no longer in bed:

  • There was Phyllis to help me recoup and now I am up and out again getting into trouble just like before.