cash cow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cash cow" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to a product, service, or business that generates a steady and significant profit. For example, "The new smartphone model has become a cash cow for the company." Alternative expressions include "profit generator," "revenue stream," and "money maker."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That's the cash cow now".

The New Yorker

You've been their cash cow".

The New Yorker

"It's our cash cow".

The New York Times - Food

I was the cash cow for Jim.

Independent

Oligarchs treat Ukraine as a cash cow.

The Economist

It was not a cash cow.

The New Yorker

It really is a cash cow.

The Economist

Poor Diaghilev never found his cash cow.

The New York Times - Arts

Schering had a magnificent cash cow.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Simmons has been a cash cow.

The New York Times

"Locke is a cash cow," he explained to them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a product or service that generates substantial profit, use "cash cow" to clearly communicate its financial importance.

Common error

Avoid using "cash cow" to describe a new or unproven venture. "Cash cow" implies a long-term, reliable source of income, unlike a startup that is still finding its footing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cash cow" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig examples show its use to describe dependable sources of income for businesses or organizations, consistent with Ludwig AI analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cash cow" is a widely used noun phrase that refers to a dependable source of significant income, primarily in business and financial contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in news and business publications. While alternatives like "profit center" or "revenue stream" exist, "cash cow" offers a concise and easily understood way to describe a highly profitable asset. Understanding the nuances of its usage, as well as common pitfalls, will make communications more effective. Ludwig examples shows its high frequency in the news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

profit center

Focuses on the aspect of generating profit, rather than the steady, reliable nature implied by "cash cow".

revenue stream

Highlights the ongoing generation of revenue, similar to "cash cow" but less figurative.

moneymaker

A more general term for something that earns money, lacking the nuance of consistent and reliable income.

golden goose

Implies a valuable asset that should be protected, adding a layer of caution not present in "cash cow".

bread and butter

Emphasizes the essential nature of the income source, rather than the sheer amount of profit.

gravy train

Suggests an easy or effortless source of income, which may not always be the case with a "cash cow".

chief asset

Refers to the most important asset, which might not be related to income.

core business

Indicates the central or most important part of a business, but not necessarily the most profitable.

flagship product

Highlights the most well-known product, which can be, or not, most profitable one.

primary income source

Describes the main source of income, without specific reference to profitability or sustainability.

FAQs

How is the term "cash cow" typically used in business?

In business, "cash cow" refers to a product, service, or business unit that generates a consistent and substantial amount of profit, often exceeding the investment required to maintain it.

What are some synonyms for "cash cow"?

Alternatives to "cash cow" include "profit center", "revenue stream", and "moneymaker". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "cash cow" in formal writing?

Yes, "cash cow" is acceptable in formal writing, particularly in business and financial contexts. However, be mindful of your audience and consider using a more formal alternative like "profit center" if necessary.

How does a "cash cow" differ from a "rising star" in business strategy?

A "cash cow" generates more cash than it consumes, while a "rising star" has high growth potential and requires significant investment. A rising star might become a "profit center" in the future.