追い風
Meanings
tailwind; fair wind; favorable wind
A wind blowing in the same direction as one's movement, making travel easier. Often used literally in weather, sailing, and cycling contexts.
With the tailwind today, cycling is easy.
The ship left the harbor with a fair wind.
favorable condition; advantageous situation
Figurative use: a situation or trend that works in one's favor, like a tailwind pushing one forward. Common in business, politics, and sports commentary.
Sales grew thanks to the tailwind of economic recovery.
His new work became a huge hit, helped by the tailwind of film awards.
Usage patterns
- 追い風が吹くfor a tailwind to blow
Today there's a tailwind blowing, so I can ride my bike fast.
- 追い風に乗るto ride a tailwind (fig. to take advantage of favorable conditions)
The industry grew, riding the tailwind of the economic boom.
- 〈事〉が追い風となるfor something to become a favorable factor
The weak yen became a favorable factor for exporting companies.
- 追い風を受けるto receive/benefit from a tailwind
The yacht picked up speed as it caught the tailwind.