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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Separate a literal lottery win from expressions for lucky breaks and major success.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“Hit the jackpot” literally means winning a large prize, but it also describes an unusually fortunate success. Related phrases include “strike it rich,” “make a killing,” “hit it big,” and “hit the big time,” each with its own emphasis.
Cultural note: “Make a killing” usually points to a large financial gain and can sound boastful. “Hit the jackpot” is broader and can describe a lucky opportunity without money changing hands.
Keep exploringA jackpot is a prize, but English speakers also use it for a lucky break. Notice which neighboring phrases are specifically about money.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a fortunate outcome that may not involve money.
Meaning
Win a top prize or have a remarkably fortunate success.
Tone & use
It can be literal, as in a lottery, or figurative, as in finding a great job by chance.
Example
“When the small apartment turned out to be near work and within her budget, she felt she had hit the jackpot.”
Recognize phrases that emphasize wealth or profit.
Meaning
Become wealthy, often suddenly or through good fortune.
Tone & use
Usually emphasizes becoming rich rather than success in general.
Example
“The family did not strike it rich, but the shop became a steady source of income.”
Meaning
Earn or gain a large amount of money.
Tone & use
Informal and sometimes boastful. It is about financial gain, not simply doing well at a task.
Example
“The seller made a killing when demand for the vintage posters suddenly increased.”
Talk informally about becoming very successful.
Meaning
Achieve great success or become widely successful.
Tone & use
Often used about a career, business, entertainment, or a major public achievement.
Example
“The local band hit it big after one of its songs became popular online.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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