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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Describe a person, place, or industry at its most successful—and distinguish past success from present decline.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptA “heyday” is a period when a person, career, place, or industry is at its greatest strength, popularity, or success. Related phrases include “in your prime,” “at your peak,” “at the pinnacle,” and “glory days.” The source notes that “heyday” is usually singular.
Cultural note: “Glory days” can sound nostalgic and may suggest someone is focused on the past. A city or industry can also have a heyday. The VOA article presents historical claims about the word’s earlier uses as reports from word experts and a dictionary; those accounts should remain attributed rather than stated as certain.
Keep exploringA word about a person’s best days can also describe a city, career, or industry at its height.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a period of exceptional strength or performance.
Meaning
At a period of life or ability when someone is performing at their best.
Tone & use
Often said about a person’s physical ability or career. Be aware that it can imply someone is past their best when used about age.
Example
“The runner set a personal record while she was in her prime.”
Meaning
At the highest point of ability, success, or performance.
Tone & use
Can describe a temporary high point, not necessarily a permanent condition.
Example
“The singer was at the peak of her popularity after the album release.”
Talk about success in professions, businesses, or places.
Meaning
A period when someone or something is at its greatest strength, popularity, or success.
Tone & use
Usually used in the singular: “in its heyday.” It can describe people, careers, cities, industries, or other things.
Example
“The small theater hosted famous performers in its heyday.”
Meaning
The highest or most important point of achievement.
Tone & use
More formal or emphatic than “at your peak.” It can be used for careers or accomplishments.
Example
“Leading the research team was the pinnacle of her career.”
Recognize nostalgic references to earlier achievements.
Meaning
A past period remembered for great success or happiness.
Tone & use
Often nostalgic; can suggest that a speaker focuses on past achievements rather than the present.
Example
“The former teammates still laugh about their glory days in college.”
Knowledge check
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