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Definitions

upstream

[uhp-streem] / ˈʌpˈstrim /
ADJECTIVE
difficult
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ambitious arduous burdensome challenging crucial demanding laborious onerous painful problematic severe strenuous tough troublesome
WEAK
backbreaker bothersome difficile easier said than done effortful exacting formidable galling gargantuan hard-won heavy herculean immense intricate irritating labored no picnic not easy operose problem prohibitive rigid stiff titanic toilsome trying unyielding uphill wearisome
Antonyms
STRONGEST
easy effortless facile helpful nice trivial
WEAK
calm free friendly manageable plain simple sociable straightforward uncomplicated

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Halliburton’s Miller largely said the same, highlighting a “far more constructive backdrop” for upstream investments and the oilfield-services business.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 24, 2026

Assuming conditions don’t deteriorate further, “these supply responses reinforce our conviction of a broad-based recovery in upstream markets in 2027 and 2028,” Le Peuch said.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

One of the species that would benefit, it said was Atlantic salmon, which faced challenges in getting upstream to spawn.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

This is becoming the standard position: A.I. for everything upstream of prose is acceptable; A.I. for the prose itself is a betrayal.

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

It took a moment for my head to clear, but when it did, I heard splashing and laughter from upstream.

From "Mississippi Trial, 1955" by Chris Crowe