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Definitions

make a living

VERB
support
Synonyms
STRONGEST
back encourage finance fund maintain raise set up sponsor strengthen subsidize uphold
STRONG
angel bankroll chaperon cherish feed fortify foster guard keep nourish nurse prop stake stiffen stroke succor sustain underwrite
WEAK
attend to be a source of strength bring up buoy up care for earn one's keep give a leg up keep an eye on look after pay expenses of pay for pick up the check put up money for
Antonyms
STRONGEST
conclude depress discourage dissuade finish hurt ignore neglect take weaken
STRONG
abandon starve
WEAK
contradict disapprove let down let go oppose refuse reject release

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“You can’t make a living doing it,” she told the outlet.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

So does his amazement that someone like himself can make a living through long-term investing and helping others to do so.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 16, 2026

Rabie tried to make a living as a driver, but couldn't get a license without a residence permit, and has since survived on help from friends and relatives.

From Barron's • Feb. 4, 2026

Ernesto never did get the taxi, but he did find enough work to make a living.

From Slate • Jan. 27, 2026

Shin had not figured out how to pay his bills, make a living, or find a girlfriend in South Korea.

From "Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West" by Blaine Harden