Make a killing
/meɪk ə ˈkɪlɪŋ/informalUK · US
What does “Make a killing” mean?
Make a killing means to make a very large profit
A stall selling umbrellas outside a concert during a downpour might make a killing. The phrase highlights unusually strong earnings.
It does not automatically mean the seller cheated anyone. Context decides whether the speaker admires the profit or dislikes how it was made.
When do people say it?
Use it for earning a lot from a sale, investment or business opportunity, often in a short time. It can sound admiring or critical.
“The umbrella stall made a killing when rain hit the outdoor concert.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
“Killing” has an informal meaning of a large financial gain. In this phrase, it is money being made, not a literal act of violence.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Make a killing” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Bring home the bacon, to earn the money needed to support a household
Last updated 2026-10-01