On Top of the World, to Be
“On top of the world, to be” - To feel elated; to be extremely successful. This metaphor for the peak of well-being dates from the early twentieth century. P.G. Wodehouse used it in Very Good, Jeeves! (1930): “If ever a bird [fellow] was sitting on top of the world, that bird was Bingo.”
Related Terms and Synonyms
- Walking on Air - To feel extremely happy.
- King of the Hill - Being the best at something.
- Over the Moon - Exceptionally excited or happy.
- On Cloud Nine - Feeling euphoric.
- Riding High - Experiencing success.
Antonyms
- Down in the Dumps - Feeling very sad.
- At Rock Bottom - Going through the lowest point.
- In the Doldrums - Being in low spirits.
- Feeling Blue - Experiencing sadness or disappointment.
- Under the Weather - Not feeling well.
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “I’m on top of the world, and I can’t get down, mostly because I’m really afraid of heights!” 🤣
Proverbs and Common Phrases
- “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success.” - Albert Schweitzer
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” - Steve Jobs
Literature, Books, and Entertainment
- Book: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho – An inspirational tale about chasing your dreams.
- Song: Eye of the Tiger by Survivor – A classic anthem of triumph and determination.
- Movie: The Pursuit of Happyness – A powerful film about achieving success against all odds.
- Poetry: Ode to Joy by Friedrich Schiller – An ode celebrating the joy of success.
- Quote: “You have to fight to reach your dream. You have to sacrifice and work hard for it.” – Lionel Messi
Quizzes and Interactions
### Which phrase means to feel very happy?
- [x] On Cloud Nine
- [ ] In the Doldrums
- [ ] Under the Weather
- [ ] Feeling Blue
> **Explanation:** "On Cloud Nine" means to be feeling euphoria, much like being "on top of the world."
### Which idiom describes extreme success and elation?
- [ ] Down in the Dumps
- [x] On Top of the World
- [ ] Cooking with Gas
- [ ] Hanging in There
> **Explanation:** "On Top of the World" means experiencing an exceptional state of success and happiness.
### Which of the following is NOT an antonym of "on top of the world"?
- [ ] Down in the Dumps
- [ ] At Rock Bottom
- [ ] Feeling Blue
- [x] Riding High
> **Explanation:** "Riding High" is actually a synonym, not an antonym, of "on top of the world."
### True or False: The phrase "on top of the world" originated in the 19th century.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** It originated in the early 20th century, not the 19th century.
### In which book did P.G. Wodehouse use the phrase "on top of the world"?
- [ ] The Alchemist
- [ ] The Great Gatsby
- [ ] Pride and Prejudice
- [x] Very Good, Jeeves!
> **Explanation:** P.G. Wodehouse used this phrase in the book "Very Good, Jeeves!"
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
✨ “As you journey through life, may you find yourself feeling on top of the world, experiencing heights of joy and success with every step. Keep climbing, keep aspiring, and always remember: the sky isn’t the limit, it’s only the beginning.”
– E. L. Levity
