The party's longtime boss, Meade H. Esposito, was legendary for his ability to influence the upper rungs of city and state government.

It was left to "The Cosby Show" to show at least some blacks getting to the upper rungs of the socioeconomic ladder.

Close in front of me, standing on the upper rungs of the ladder, and leaning inwards, was a figure entirely hidden in a shiny white suit.

It's about identifying with people on the upper rungs of the socioeconomic ladder - the boss, say, or characters on television dramas, or celebrities.

Just within reach from the upper rungs was a stainless steel shelf holding a jar of Oreo cookies.

His face was near the upper rungs.

Despite his short, rotund, and almost comical frame, he radiated that indefinable air of someone accustomed to the upper rungs of authority.

But their families appeared to be on the upper rungs; their fathers were religious leaders, school principals, shopkeepers and businessmen.

Rossini's hyperspanner dangled forgotten in his left hand while his right held tight to one of the upper rungs.