earn a living
/ɜːrn ə ˈlɪvɪŋ/
Meaning
This expression means to make enough money to pay for things you need, such as food, housing, and clothing. It refers to how someone supports themselves financially through their job or business. It is a very common, neutral way to talk about working for money.
Examples
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She earns a living as a freelance graphic designer.
She earns a living as a freelance graphic designer.
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It can be difficult to earn a living when you first start your own business.
It can be difficult to earn a living when you first start your own business.
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He does what he loves, and he manages to earn a decent living from it.
He does what he loves, and he manages to earn a decent living from it.
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Many people in this coastal town earn a living from fishing.
Many people in this coastal town earn a living from fishing.
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How do you earn a living if you don't mind me asking?
How do you earn a living if you don't mind me asking?
Common Mistakes
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✗ He wins a living by teaching English.
✓ He earns a living by teaching English.
In English, you 'earn' money or a living through work. 'Win' is used for competitions, lotteries, or games.
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✗ It is hard to earn a life in this expensive city.
✓ It is hard to earn a living in this expensive city.
The correct collocation is 'earn a living' or 'make a living'. We do not say 'earn a life'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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He decided to change careers because he couldn't ___ as an artist.
💡 make enough money to survive
Show answer
earn a living
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Many writers struggle to ___ solely from their book sales.
💡 pay for basic needs with their work
Show answer
earn a living