Groundswell of opposition
Meaning
A sudden, powerful, and widespread increase in negative feeling or disagreement from a large group of people.
Origin
Imagine the deep, silent power of the ocean. A groundswell isn't a frothy wave born from a local gust; it's a vast, rolling surge generated by a distant, powerful storm. This immense, deep-seated movement travels across the water, growing in might and momentum, often unseen until it crashes upon the shore. It was this irresistible, deep-seated force of nature that lent its name to the metaphorical 'groundswell' of public opinion or opposition in the 19th century. Just like the ocean's silent build-up, a groundswell of opposition gathers its strength beneath the surface, fueled by widespread sentiment, until it becomes an undeniable, unstoppable force demanding attention and change.
Examples
- There was a significant groundswell of opposition to the new tax hike across all social classes.
- The government was unprepared for the massive groundswell of opposition that arose after their controversial policy announcement.