Money & Success

Six idioms native speakers use when talking about wealth, spending, setbacks, and achieving goals.

Meaning

To be extremely expensive.

Example

"The renovation looked simple but it ended up costing an arm and a leg."

Conversation questions

What's the most expensive thing you've ever bought that cost an arm and a leg? Was it worth it?
Is there anything you'd spend an arm and a leg on without hesitation?

Meaning

To have just enough money to cover basic living expenses.

Example

"It was a tough few months, but we managed to make ends meet."

Conversation questions

Have you or someone you know ever had a difficult period where it was hard to make ends meet?
What advice would you give someone struggling to make ends meet right now?

Meaning

To achieve great success or have a stroke of very good luck.

Example

"She really hit the jackpot with that investment — it paid off ten times over."

Conversation questions

Have you ever felt like you hit the jackpot — in life, work, or a relationship?
Do you think success is more about hitting the jackpot (luck) or hard work? Why?

Meaning

To go back to the very beginning after a failure or setback.

Example

"The deal fell through and we're back to square one — we have to start the whole process again."

Conversation questions

Have you ever had to go back to square one on a project or life plan? What did you learn?
How do you stay motivated when everything falls apart and you're back to square one?

Meaning

To spend less money; to cut back on expenses during a difficult period.

Example

"With the pay cut, we all had to tighten our belts for a while."

Conversation questions

Have you ever had to tighten your belt? What did you cut back on first?
Do you think people are naturally good at tightening their belts, or does it take practice?

Meaning

To suddenly become very wealthy or achieve great financial success.

Example

"He struck it rich after selling his tech startup — he retired at 35."

Conversation questions