100s Of Ways to Say ‘Making Money’

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There’s only so many ways one can say ‘make money’, so I’m always on the look out for phrases, slangs idioms, proverbs, and any clever expressions that have the same meaning.

Interesting proverbs and colloquial sayings that revolve around the subject of money have also found their way into my collection. Do join in the fun! Peruse the lists below and let me know if you use a witty twist of words that did not make this collection yet and I’ll be sure to include it in the next update.

Enjoy!

red, white dog on table with money
Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash

I’m updating this collection a few times a year. Here’s a grouping of headings to help you around this long winded post 🤣🤣:


In this article you’ll find:

  1. PHRASES (commonly use by English speakers)
  2. SLANG PHRASES FOR $$$
  3. SLANG WORDS FOR $$$ (pop culture)
  4. IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used in English speaking countries)
  5. IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Hindi speakers)
  6. IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by French speakers)
  7. IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Japanese speakers)
  8. IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Mandarin speakers)
  9. IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Spanish speakers)

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PHRASES (commonly use by English speakers)

plant in pot filled with coins
Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash
  1. Bring home the bacon – This phrase, which means to earn a living or make money, has been in use since at least the early 1900s. It may have originated from the practice of awarding a “bacon” to the winner of a pig-catching contest in England or from a medieval English custom in which a man would present a flitch (or side) of bacon to his wife if they had been happily married for a year and a day.
  2. Bring in the dough – This phrase means to earn a lot of money. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the early 1900s.
  3. Bring in the green – to make money or earn a profit. This phrase likely comes from the colour of U.S. currency, which is often referred to as “green.”
  4. Bring home the loot – to earn a lot of money or steal something valuable. This phrase likely comes from the image of a robber or pirate bringing home a large haul of stolen goods.
  5. Cash flow – This phrase means the amount of cash that is coming in and going out of a business or individual’s finances. It is a common way to describe the financial health of a business or individual.
  6. Cash in – This phrase means to make a profit or gain an advantage from a situation. This phrase likely comes from the act of exchanging a check or other financial instrument for cash.
  7. Earn a living – This phrase simply means to make money in order to support oneself and/or one’s family. It has been in use since at least the 1700s and is still a common way to describe making money today.
  8. Generate income – This phrase means to create revenue or make money from a particular source. It is a common way to describe making money in a business or investment context.
  9. Get paid – This phrase simply means to receive payment for work or services rendered. It has been in use since at least the mid-1900s and is still a common way to describe receiving money today.
  10. Harvest profits – This phrase means to reap the benefits or rewards of a successful business or investment. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  11. Hit the jackpot – This phrase means to suddenly and unexpectedly make a large amount of money. It originated from the practice of winning a large sum of money in a game of chance, such as a slot machine or lottery.
  12. Hit paydirt – to find success or make a lot of money. This phrase originated in the mining industry, where prospectors would “hit paydirt” when they found a valuable vein of ore.
  13. Make a buck – This phrase means to make money, often a small amount. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the early 1900s.
  14. Make a bundle – to earn a lot of money. The origin of this phrase is unclear, but it may have been influenced by the image of a bundle of money.
  15. Make a killing – This phrase means to make a large amount of money quickly and easily. It has been in use since at least the early 1900s and is thought to have originated from the practice of hunting animals for profit.
  16. Make a mint – to make a lot of money quickly or easily. This phrase likely comes from the image of a mint that produces coins, which are used to represent money.
  17. Make bank – This phrase means to make a lot of money quickly and easily. It has been in use since at least the mid-1900s. This phrase likely comes from the image of a bank vault filled with money.
  18. Net profit – This phrase means the amount of money that is left over after all expenses have been paid. It is a common way to describe the profitability of a business or investment.
  19. Rake it in – This phrase means to make a lot of money quickly or easily. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  20. Rake in the dough – to earn a large amount of money quickly. The phrase “rake in” was originally used to describe the act of raking leaves or hay into a pile, which may have inspired the use of the phrase to describe collecting money.
  21. Roll in the dough – to have a lot of money or be very wealthy. This phrase likely comes from the image of a baker rolling out dough to make bread, which may have inspired the use of the phrase to describe making money.
  22. Score – This phrase means to make a profit or gain an advantage from a situation. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  23. Strike it rich – This phrase means to suddenly and unexpectedly become wealthy. It originated from the practice of discovering a valuable mineral deposit, such as gold or silver, while mining.
  24. Strike oil – to find success or make a lot of money. This phrase originates from the oil industry, where drilling for oil can be a risky and unpredictable business. When oil is found, it can bring great wealth to the individuals or companies involved. The phrase became popular during the oil boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  25. Strike while the iron is hot – to take advantage of a good opportunity. This phrase comes from the blacksmithing industry, where iron must be heated to a certain temperature before it can be worked on.
  26. Turn a profit – This phrase means to make a financial gain from a business or investment. It comes from the image of turning a profit on a business investment, much like turning a corner

Slang phrasing always comes down to an alternative word used for the word ‘MONEY’. Here are some slang phrasing and slang words for $.

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SLANG PHRASES FOR $$$

  1. Bag a profit – This slang means to make a profit or earn money, often used in reference to a successful business or investment. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the late 1900s, and may be related to the slang phrase “bagging groceries,” which means to pack and carry groceries for a customer.
  2. Bag some scratch – to earn money, often through hard work or a job that pays well.
  3. Bring home the bacon –  to earn money to support oneself or one’s family. This slang means to earn money, often used to describe the primary breadwinner in a household. Its origins date back to the early 1900s when the phrase was used in rural areas where bringing home a literal side of bacon was a measure of success.
  4. Cake up – This slang means to make a lot of money quickly, often used in reference to a successful business venture. Its origins date back to the mid-2000s and may be related to the phrase “stacking cake.”
  5. Cash in –  to make a profit, or to sell something for a high price. This slang means to profit or make money, often used in reference to selling something. Its origins date back to the late 1800s when it was used in relation to converting bonds or securities into cash.
  6. Chasing the bag – This slang means to pursue financial success, often used in reference to entrepreneurial pursuits or investments. Its origins date back to the early 2010s and may be related to the phrase “chasing money.”
  7. Clean up – to make a lot of money, especially in a situation where others may not have been able to.
  8. Get fat – to become wealthy or make a lot of money.
  9. Get in on the gravy train – to become involved in a profitable situation, often one that is already underway.
  10. Get paid – This slang means to receive payment or make money, often used in reference to a paycheck or freelance work. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  11. Gettin’ paper – This slang means to make money, often used in reference to steady income or earnings. Its origins date back to the early 2000s and may be related to the phrase “getting your paycheck.”
  12. Grind – This slang means to work hard and make money, often used in reference to a difficult or demanding job or business. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the late 1900s.
  13. Hit pay dirt – to achieve a sudden financial success or make a large amount of money unexpectedly. This slang means to strike it rich or make a lot of money, often used in reference to a successful business or investment. Its origins date back to the gold rush era of the mid-1800s when miners would strike a vein of gold and hit paydirt.
  14. Hit the jackpot – This slang means to make a lot of money, often used in reference to a successful investment or business venture. Its origins date back to the early 1900s when it was used in reference to winning a large sum of money in a slot machine or other gambling game.
  15. Hustle – This slang means to work hard and make money quickly or through unconventional means, often used in reference to small business owners or freelancers. Its origins date back to the early 1900s when it was used in reference to street vendors and peddlers.
  16. Line one’s pockets – to make a lot of money, often in a dishonest or unethical way.
  17. Make a killing –  to make a large profit or earn a lot of money very quickly. This slang means to make a lot of money quickly or easily, often used in reference to a successful investment or business venture. Its origins date back to the early 1900s when it was used in reference to the stock market.
  18. Make bank – This slang means to make a lot of money, often used in reference to a successful career or business. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the late 1900s.
  19. Making moves – This slang means to take action to make money or achieve financial success, often used in reference to entrepreneurial pursuits. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-2000s.
  20. Paper chasin’ – This slang means to pursue financial success, often used in reference to working hard to make money. Its origins date back to the early 2000s and may be related to the phrase “chasing paper.”
  21. Pull in the green – to earn a lot of money, especially in a short period of time.
  22. Rack up the cash – This slang means to accumulate or earn a lot of money, often used in reference to a successful career or business. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  23. Rake in the dough – to make a lot of money quickly and easily, possibly from a particular venture or job.
  24. Raking it in – This slang means to make a lot of money quickly or easily, often used in reference to a successful business or investment. Its origins date back to the early 1900s and may be related to the phrase “raking leaves.”
  25. Roll in the dough – to make a lot of money quickly and easily. This slang means to earn a lot of money, often used to describe a profitable business or venture. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  26. Running it up – This slang means to make a lot of money quickly or easily, often used in reference to a successful business or investment. Its origins date back to the mid-2000s and may be related to the phrase “running up a tab.”
  27. Score – This slang means to make money or achieve success, often used in reference to sports or business. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  28. Score a bundle – to make a large amount of money, often in a short period of time.
  29. Securing the bag – This slang means to earn a lot of money, often used in reference to a successful business or investment. Its origins date back to the mid-2010s and may be related to the phrase “getting the bag.”
  30. Stack paper – This slang means to accumulate or earn a lot of money, often used in reference to a successful business or investment. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the late 1900s.
  31. Stacking chips – This slang means to accumulate money, often used in reference to gambling or making successful investments. Its origins date back to the mid-2000s and may be related to the phrase “stacking poker chips.”
  32. Strike it rich – to become suddenly wealthy or to make a large amount of money unexpectedly.
  33. Take home the loot – to earn a lot of money, especially from a specific job or venture.

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SLANG WORDS FOR $$$ (pop culture)

Young man with backward cap holding up wads of cash
Photo by Anjo Clacino on Unsplash
  1. Bands, to make bands – to earn a lot of money. This phrase is commonly used in hip-hop culture and refers to accumulating large sums of money, often depicted as “bands” of cash. Its origin is rooted in the practice of carrying money in rubber bands to keep it organized. 
  2. Bread, to bring home the bread – to earn a living or support oneself financially. This phrase originates from the idea that bread has traditionally been a staple food and earning money is essential for providing sustenance. It emphasizes the importance of earning income to meet basic needs.
  3. Cake, to make cake – to earn a significant amount of money. This phrase comes from the image of a cake, which is often associated with celebrations and abundance. It implies generating substantial wealth or enjoying financial success. 
  4. Cash rules everything around me (C.R.E.A.M) – a phrase popularized by the Wu-Tang Clan, referring to the importance of money in society.
  5. Cheddar, to earn cheddar – to make a lot of money. This phrase derives from “cheddar cheese,” which is yellow in color and has been used metaphorically to represent money. It suggests accumulating a substantial amount of wealth. 
  6. Clams – This slang means money, often used to describe a moderate amount of money. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the early 1900s.
  7. Dinero – This slang means money, often used in reference to a large amount of cash. Its origins date back to the early 1900s when it was borrowed from the Spanish language.
  8. Doe – referring to money, often in large amounts.
  9. Dough – This slang means money, often used to describe a large amount of money. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the early 1900s.
  10. Fetti – This slang means money, often used in reference to a large amount of cash. Slang for money, often used in hip-hop culture. The term “fetti” is believed to have originated from the word “confetti,” which is associated with celebration and abundance. In the context of money, it represents the joy and excitement of earning wealth.
  11. Flip – This slang means to make a profit from buying and selling goods or investments, often used in reference to real estate or stocks. Its origins date back to the mid-1900s and may be related to the phrase “flipping a house.”
  12. Franklins – referring to hundred-dollar bills, named after Benjamin Franklin.
  13. Gravy – This slang means easy money or profits, often used to describe a particularly profitable opportunity or investment. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  14. Greenbacks – This slang means money, specifically referring to US dollars. Its origins date back to the American Civil War, when the US government issued paper money that was green in color.
  15. Grind – referring to the act of working hard to make money.
  16. Guala – referring to money or wealth, derived from the Italian word “guadagnare” meaning “to earn”.
  17. Guap – This slang means money, often used in reference to a large amount of cash. The term “Guap” was popularized by rapper Big Sean in his 2011 song “Guap”, and has since been used by other artists and in mainstream culture.
  18. Käsh – a German slang term for money.
  19. Loot – This slang means money, often used to describe a large amount of money. Tt has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  20. M’s – referring to millions of dollars, a term commonly used in the rap industry to denote great wealth.
  21. Moolah – This slang means money, often used in reference to a large amount of cash. It’s often used to describe a significant amount of money. It has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  22. Mula – referring to money, often in large amounts, derived from the Spanish word “mula” meaning “mule”.
  23. P’s – referring to pounds, the currency used in the UK.
  24. Paper – This slang means money, often used to describe cash. Ithas been in use since at least the early 1900s.
  25. Paydough – This slang means money, often used in reference to earnings or income. Its origins date back to the mid-1900s when it was coined as a play on the word “playdough.”
  26. Pesos – referring to money, often in large amounts, derived from the Spanish word “peso”. The word “pesos” itself comes from the Spanish language, where it means “weight.” The currency has a long history dating back to the Spanish colonial period.
  27. Racks – This slang means money, often used in reference to a large amount of cash. Its origins date back to the early 2000s, when it was popularized by the rapper Yung Joc.
  28. Scratch – This slang means money, often used to describe a small or moderate amount of money. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  29. Skrilla – This slang means money, often used to describe a large amount of money. Another slang term for money, often used in urban and hip-hop communities. The origin of the term “scrilla” is unclear, but it is thought to have emerged in African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) and gained popularity through hip-hop music and culture.
  30. Smackers – This slang means money, often used in reference to a large amount of cash. Its origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the mid-1900s.
  31. Stacks – A slang term for a large amount of money, typically referring to a stack of bills. The term “stacks” is thought to have originated from the image of money being stacked up in a neat pile, resembling a stack of objects.

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IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used in English speaking countries)

  1. All about the Benjamins – to focus solely on making money and accumulating wealth. This idiom comes from the image of Benjamin Franklin, whose portrait appears on the US $100 bill.
  2. Bank on it – to depend on something to provide financial security or success.
  3. Bet the farm – to risk everything on a particular outcome or investment.
  4. Blow up – to suddenly become very successful or profitable.
  5. Break the bank – to win or spend a large amount of money, often to the point of financial instability.
  6. Bring home the bacon – to earn a living and provide for one’s family.
  7. Bring in the big bucks – to earn a large amount of money.
  8. Bring in the dough – to make a lot of money, often quickly and easily.
  9. Build a fortune – to accumulate wealth over time, often through business ventures or investments.
  10. Cash cow – a reliable source of income or business venture that generates a lot of money. Interesting history: The term “cash cow” originally referred to a cow that produced a steady supply of milk, providing a reliable source of income for its owner. The term was later adopted to refer to a business venture or investment that generates steady profits over time.
  11. Cash in – to make a profit, often by selling something or taking advantage of a situation.
  12. Clean up – to make a large amount of money in a short period of time.
  13. Count one’s chickens before they hatch – to make plans based on potential future success, rather than actual results. To assume or expect to receive something before it actually happens, often related to expected financial gain.
  14. Fatten up one’s wallet – to increase one’s wealth or financial status.
  15. Feather one’s nest – to accumulate wealth or financial security, often through hard work or investment.
  16. Follow the money – to trace the flow of money to understand the motivations and interests behind a particular decision or action.
  17. Get a piece of the pie – to share in the profits or success of something.
  18. Get on the gravy train – to start earning a lot of money with minimal effort.
  19. Go for broke – to risk everything for a chance at making a lot of money.
  20. Hit pay dirt – to find or achieve something that is very profitable or successful.
  21. Hit the jackpot – to achieve a sudden financial success or win a large amount of money unexpectedly.
  22. Live off the fat of the land – to enjoy the benefits of a prosperous society or economy.
  23. Make a buck – to earn money, especially through work or a business venture.
  24. Make a killing – to earn a large amount of money, often in a short period of time.
  25. Make a mint – to make a lot of money, especially in a short period of time.
  26. Make ends meet – to earn enough money to cover one’s expenses.
  27. Milk a cash cow – to repeatedly profit from a reliable source of income.
  28. Money doesn’t grow on trees – to express the idea that earning money takes hard work and effort.
  29. Money talks – the power or influence of money in decision-making and social interactions.
  30. Pocket a profit – to make a financial gain or profit.
  31. Print money – to generate large amounts of revenue with little effort.
  32. Pull in the green – to earn a lot of money.
  33. Put bread on the table – to earn enough money to provide for oneself or one’s family.
  34. Put your money where your mouth is – to back up your words with action and financial investment. The phrase “put your money where your mouth is” originated in the early 20th century in the world of boxing, where it was used to challenge a fighter to back up their trash talk with a financial wager. The phrase later became more widely used to refer to any situation where someone is challenged to back up their words with financial investment or action.
  35. Rack up the dough – to accumulate a large amount of money quickly.
  36. Rake in the cash – to make a lot of money quickly and easily.
  37. Rake in the money – to earn a lot of money, often quickly and easily.
  38. Ride the gravy train – to profit from a trend or fad.
  39. Ring the cash register – to make a lot of money quickly, especially through sales or business.
  40. Roll in dough – to be very wealthy or have a lot of money.
  41. Score big – to achieve financial success or win a large amount of money.
  42. Scratch out a living – to make a modest income, often through hard work or manual labor.
  43. Strike gold – to come across a lucrative opportunity or venture that yields a lot of money, often unexpectedly.
  44. Strike it rich – to become suddenly wealthy or to make a large amount of money unexpectedly.
  45. Strike while the iron is hot – to take advantage of a favorable situation to make a profit or achieve success.
  46. Swim in the gravy – to make a lot of money effortlessly.

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IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Hindi speakers)

Photo by Christine Roy on Unsplash
  1. Apne pairon pe khade hona: (अपने पैरों पे खड़े होना) This phrase means “to stand on one’s own feet” in Hindi and implies the idea of becoming financially independent.
  2. Chandi ka badan: (चांदी का बदन) This phrase means “a body made of silver” in Hindi and is used to describe someone who is wealthy.
  3. Chor ki daarhi mein tinka: (चोर की दाढ़ी में तिनका) This phrase means “a speck in the beard of a thief” in Hindi and implies that even small amounts of ill-gotten gains can have negative consequences.
  4. Daal roti khao, prabhu ke gun gao: (दाल रोटी खाओ, प्रभु के गुण गाओ) This phrase means “eat simple food and sing the praises of God” in Hindi and suggests that one should be content with simple things in life.
  5. Ghar ki chappal bhi sone ki: (घर की चप्पल भी सोने की) This phrase means “even the slippers at home are made of gold” in Hindi and is used to describe someone who is very wealthy.
  6. Jitna bhi karlo kam hai: (जितना भी करलो कम है) This phrase means “no matter how much you do, it’s not enough” in Hindi and suggests that earning money is a never-ending process.
  7. Kali kamai: (काली कमाई) This phrase means “dirty money” in Hindi and is used to describe money that has been earned through dishonest means.
  8. Kamar kas ke kaam karna: (कमर कस के काम करना) This phrase means “to work very hard” in Hindi and implies putting in a lot of effort to earn money.
  9. Khud ko kar buland itna: (खुद को कर बुलंद इतना) This phrase means “make yourself so strong” in Hindi and suggests that one should work hard to achieve financial success.
  10. Lalach buri bala hai: (लालच बुरी बला है) This phrase means “greed is a bad thing” in Hindi and implies that being overly focused on money can have negative consequences.
  11. Paisa hi paisa hoga: (पैसा ही पैसा होगा) This phrase means “money begets money” in Hindi and emphasizes the idea that it takes money to make money.
  12. Paise ki kadar karo: (पैसे की कदर करो) This phrase means “value money” in Hindi and implies that one should be mindful of their spending habits.
  13. Paise ped par nahi ugte: (पैसे पेड़ पर नहीं उगते) This phrase means “money doesn’t grow on trees” in Hindi and emphasizes the idea that earning money requires hard work.
  14. Rupaiya bhi paisa nahi (रुपैया भी पैसा नहीं): This phrase means “even a rupee is not worth much” in Hindi and suggests that small amounts of money are not significant.
  15. Thoda hai, thode ki zaroorat hai (थोड़ा है, थोड़े की ज़रूरत है): This phrase means “we have a little and we need a little” in Hindi and implies contentment with a modest income.

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IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by French speakers)

  1. Avoir du blé: This phrase means “to have some wheat” in French and is a slang expression for having money.
  2. Avoir le tiroir-caisse qui sonne: This phrase means “to have a cash register that rings” in French and implies that someone is doing well financially.
  3. Être dans le fric: This phrase means “to be in cash” in French and is used to describe someone who is doing well financially.
  4. Faire des affaires en or: This phrase means “to do golden business” in French and is used to describe a very successful business venture.
  5. Faire du fric: This phrase means “to make cash” in French and is a common colloquial expression.
  6. Faire fortune: This phrase means “to make a fortune” in French and is often used to describe someone who has become very wealthy.
  7. Gagner des sous: This phrase means “to earn money” in French and is a common way of expressing the idea of making money.
  8. Mettre de l’argent de côté: This phrase means “to put money aside” in French and implies the idea of saving money for the future.
  9. Rouler sur l’or: This phrase means “to roll in gold” in French and implies that someone is very wealthy.
  10. Se faire de l’oseille: This phrase means “to make some dough” in French and is another slang expression for making money.
  11. Se faire des sous: This phrase means “to make some money” in French and is a more informal way of expressing the idea of making money.
  12. Se faire un pactole: This phrase means “to make a fortune” in French and implies the idea of becoming wealthy.
  13. Toucher le gros lot: This phrase means “to hit the big prize” in French and is often used to describe winning a large sum of money.
  14. Toucher le pactole: This phrase means “to hit the jackpot” in French and is often used to describe winning a large sum of money.
  15. Travailler pour un pont d’or: This phrase means “to work for a golden bridge” in French and is used to describe a very lucrative job offer.

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IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Japanese speakers)

Photo by Omid Armin on Unsplash
  1. Fuku to kaigi wa isoganakereba naranu 福と会議は急がなければならぬ: This proverb means “prosperity and meetings require haste” and is used to imply that one must work hard to be successful.
  2. Jibun no kane de jibun wo uru 自分の金で自分を売る: This phrase means “to sell oneself with one’s own money” and implies that one is wasting their money on something unnecessary.
  3. Kane ga araba kane ga naru 金があれば金がなる: This proverb means “if you have money, more money will come” and implies that having money can lead to further financial success.
  4. Kane no chikara 金の力: This phrase means “the power of money” and refers to the influence that money can have.
  5. Kane no kui wa soko ni tsuku 金の杭はそこに打つ: This proverb means “drive a stake of gold where it belongs” and implies that one should invest their money in a stable and secure place.
  6. Kane no ne wa kaze ni notte chuu wo hashiru 金の根は風に乗って中を走る: This proverb means “the roots of money ride the wind and run through the middle” and suggests that money can move freely and quickly through various channels.
  7. Kane no tsugai 金のつがい: This phrase means “a pair of gold” and refers to a set of matching gold objects, such as earrings or cufflinks.
  8. Kane no ue ni wa kane wo tsuke 金の上には金を積け: This proverb means “put money on top of money” and implies that one should invest their money wisely to increase their wealth.
  9. Kane wa kareinaru mono ni tsugu 金は枯れなるものにつぐ: This proverb means “money follows the dried-up” and suggests that money tends to flow towards those who are already wealthy.
  10. Kane wa katta mono no mune wo tora nu 金は買ったものの胸を貫かぬ: This phrase means “money doesn’t buy happiness” and implies that material wealth isn’t the key to happiness.
  11. Kane wa mawari no kotowari 金はまわりのことわり: This phrase means “money has its own rules” and suggests that money operates within a system of its own.
  12. Kane wa tenka no mawari mono 金は天下のまわりもの: This proverb means “money makes the world go round” and implies that everything revolves around money.
  13. Kane wa tsurakarou 金はつらからう: This phrase means “money is hard to come by” and suggests that earning money requires effort and hard work.
  14. Kinjirareta mono wa koufuku no moto 禁じられたものは幸福の素: This proverb means “what is forbidden is the source of happiness” and is often used to imply that taking risks can lead to financial success.
  15. Mokkin o kakete te ni ireru 木簡をかけて手に入れる: This phrase means “to get money by betting with a wooden coin” and implies that it’s important to be resourceful when it comes to making money.
  16. Moyamoya suru yori wa kane wo kasege もやもやするよりは金を稼げ: This proverb means “it’s better to make money than to worry” and suggests that one should focus on making money rather than being anxious.
  17. Muda na kane wa tsukau na 無駄な金は使うな: This phrase means “don’t waste your money” and suggests that it’s important to be frugal with one’s finances.
  18. Neko ni koban 猫に小判: This phrase means “gold coins to a cat” and is often used to describe a situation where something valuable is given to someone who doesn’t appreciate it.
  19. Okane ga tatsu お金が立つ: This phrase means “money stands up” and is used to describe a situation where one’s finances are improving.
  20. Okane no kane お金の金: This phrase means “money’s money” and refers to profits or income generated from one’s existing wealth.
  21. Okane wa manpuku no shohi お金は満腹の消費: This phrase means “money is for a full stomach” and suggests that having enough money to eat well is important.
  22. Okane wa osake no tame ni aru お金はお酒のためにある: This phrase means “money is for drinking” and suggests that it’s important to enjoy one’s wealth.
  23. Shichi-juu shichi-eki 七十七銭: This phrase means “77 yen, 77 sen” and is often used to describe an amount of money that is not very significant.
  24. Takara mono wa sute rarezu, hito wa sute rareba suteru 宝物は捨てられず、人は捨てられば捨てる: This proverb means “do not throw away treasures, if you throw away people, they will throw you away” and suggests that people are more valuable than material possessions.
  25. Uma no mimi ni nembutsu 馬の耳に念仏: This proverb means “to say a prayer in a horse’s ear” and is often used to describe a situation where one is trying to do something that is unlikely to succeed, such as making money without working hard.

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You have to showcase your work. There’s no way around it. You can’t build, then wait thinking ‘they will come’. Sure they will come once they know you are there. How will they know you are there unless you make some noise and splash about? Look at how some well known writers showcase their work.


IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Mandarin speakers)

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  1. Bǎi duō tiān xià, jiàn guǒ bù chūn (百多天下,见果不春): “In over 100 days of the year, the fruits are not ripe” – meaning that making money takes time and effort. This phrase comes from the ancient Chinese agricultural practice of planting fruit trees, which take a long time to bear fruit.
  2. Bù shí jìn qián (不识进钱): “Not knowing how to make money” – meaning to lack financial acumen or the ability to generate income. This phrase has been in use since ancient times and was often used to criticize scholars who valued learning over practical skills.
  3. Chī bù dào guǒ, liú bù dào qián (吃不到糕,留不到钱): “Can’t save money if you can’t get enough to eat” – meaning that one needs to make money first in order to save money. This proverb originates from a story where a poor man couldn’t afford to buy cake and ended up not being able to save any money.
  4. Duì duì xiàng dàn (对对碰蛋): “To knock eggs against each other” – meaning to make money easily or unexpectedly. The phrase comes from the game of knocking eggs against each other during the Chinese New Year, where the person whose egg remains unbroken wins.
  5. Gǔ shén chóng shòu (古神崇寿): “Worshiping ancient gods for longevity” – meaning to rely on outdated methods or ideas to make money. This phrase comes from the story of a man who believed in the ancient gods of longevity and used their methods to make money, but eventually lost everything.
  6. Hū bù shēng cái (忽悠升财): “Deceive to make money” – meaning to cheat or swindle in order to make money. This phrase originated in the Northeast region of China and is often used to describe scams or frauds.
  7. Hù xiāng kǒng jī (糊相攻击): “Attacking blindly” – meaning to engage in business or investment without a clear plan or strategy. This phrase comes from the game of blind man’s bluff, where players attack blindly without being able to see their target.
  8. Huán xiāng suǒ yì (换象锁医): “Changing elephants to lock doctors” – meaning to invest in something that is unfamiliar or outside of one’s area of expertise, and thus risky. This phrase comes from a story in which a king tried to cure a sick elephant by having the elephant doctors put a lock on its trunk. The treatment failed and the elephant died, which led to the expression “changing elephants to lock doctors.”
  9. Jīn dùn zhù gān (金盾助赣): “The Golden Shield helps Jiangxi” – meaning to get government support or protection in business. This phrase comes from the story of a governor who used a golden shield to protect the province of Jiangxi from invaders, and is now used to describe government support in business.
  10. Lóng zhēn yú mài (龙阵鱼卖): “Selling fish in the dragon formation” – meaning to do business in a strategic and orderly manner. This phrase comes from a story where a fish seller sold fish in the shape of a dragon, which attracted many customers and brought him success in business.
  11. Mǎ shàng chū xìng (马上出行): “Setting off on horseback right away” – meaning to make money quickly or immediately. This phrase comes from the ancient practice of traveling by horseback, which was the fastest mode of transportation at the time.
  12. Yī shí tóng bì (一失同比): “A small loss is the same as a large one” – meaning that any loss of money is still a loss and should be avoided. This phrase comes from the concept of “opportunity cost,” which suggests that any cost or loss, no matter how small, is still a cost.
  13. Yǔn qián shùn fēng (运钱顺风): “Money comes with the wind” – meaning to make money easily or without much effort. This phrase comes from the belief that money can come and go quickly, much like the wind. It is often used to describe unexpected or lucky financial gains.
  14. Zhǎn fāng biàn yè, dǎ tóu gǎn qián (占房便业,打头赚钱): “Occupying a storefront and doing business, making money right from the start” – meaning to start a business and make money quickly. This phrase was used during the Ming dynasty to describe how some successful businessmen started their enterprises by occupying prime real estate locations.

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IDIOMS + PROVERBS (commonly used by Spanish speakers)

  1. Dar el pelotazo – To hit the jackpot. This phrase draws from the world of gambling, where hitting the jackpot implies a sudden and substantial financial success.
  2. Ganar a manos llenas – To earn with full hands. This phrase signifies making money abundantly or in large quantities, suggesting a significant financial gain.
  3. Ganar el pan – To earn the bread. This phrase emphasizes the importance of earning money to sustain oneself and meet basic needs, with “bread” symbolizing sustenance.
  4. Ganarse el pan – To earn one’s bread. This expression refers to the fundamental necessity of earning money to sustain oneself, with “bread” symbolizing basic sustenance.
  5. Ganarse la vida – To earn a living. This expression highlights the necessity of earning money to sustain oneself, with “vida” representing life and livelihood.
  6. Hacer billete – To make a bill (money). This slang phrase refers to the act of making money or earning a profit, emphasizing the generation of wealth.
  7. Hacer caja – To make cash. This phrase comes from the world of commerce, referring to the act of collecting cash from sales or transactions.
  8. Hacer el agosto – To make August. In some Latin countries, August is a month associated with vacations and spending money. This phrase metaphorically represents making a financial profit or taking advantage of a prosperous time.
  9. Hacer lana – To make wool. This slang phrase originates from the textile industry, where wool is a valuable commodity. It metaphorically represents making money or earning a profit.
  10. Hacer su agosto – To make their August. This phrase, similar to the English idiom “make hay while the sun shines,” suggests taking advantage of a favorable opportunity or situation to make money.
  11. Hacerse de billete – To make oneself money. This expression highlights the act of acquiring wealth or making money through various means.
  12. Hacerse de oro – To make a fortune. This phrase draws an analogy to the precious metal gold, which has long been associated with wealth and prosperity.
  13. Hacerse de plata – To make silver. This phrase metaphorically represents making money, as silver has long been associated with wealth and value.
  14. Llenarse los bolsillos – To fill one’s pockets. This idiom metaphorically describes accumulating wealth or making money, with “pockets” representing the repository for financial gain.
  15. Meterse en negocios – To get into businesses. This phrase implies involvement in profitable ventures or entrepreneurial activities, emphasizing the pursuit of financial gain.
  16. Montar un negocio – To set up a business. This expression emphasizes the act of starting a business venture with the intention of making money.
  17. Ponerse las botas – To fill one’s boots. This phrase alludes to the image of someone filling their boots with valuable items, signifying making a significant financial gain.
  18. Ponerse las pilas – To put on the batteries. This idiomatic expression encourages someone to become more active or energized in their pursuit of making money.
  19. Sacar tajada – To get a slice. The phrase “sacar tajada” refers to obtaining a portion or share of something valuable, often used to describe making money from a lucrative opportunity.
  20. Sacarle jugo – To squeeze juice out. This slang phrase is used to describe extracting the maximum benefit or profit from a situation or endeavor, relating to making money efficiently and effectively.

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Life is too short to waste on activities that don’t ignite your spark. Embrace your true strengths because they’re your ticket to a fulfilling and successful career.

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Sources tapped for this article: Rap Dictionary, Entrepreneur Media, English by Day, Wikipedia, Fluentu


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