make a fortune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a fortune" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something that has become very wealthy. For example, "He made a fortune in the stock market".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It will make a fortune.

The Economist

I'm out to make a fortune".

The New York Times

Whoever wins stands to make a fortune.

The New Yorker

It has yet to make a fortune.

The Economist

He'd make a fortune selling it.

Independent

They only want to make a fortune.

The New York Times

Didn't that make a fortune?

The New York Times - Magazine

NBC will make a fortune.

The New Yorker

Gangs make a fortune trading in lives.

The Guardian - Opinion

If it works we'll make a fortune.

The Guardian

YouTube's founders and investors will make a fortune.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a fortune" when you want to convey the idea of someone becoming very rich, often through a specific venture or opportunity. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Don't assume that "making a fortune" is easy or guaranteed. The phrase often implies significant effort, risk, or luck, so avoid using it in situations where success is almost certain or requires minimal effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a fortune" primarily functions as a verb phrase, expressing the action of becoming very wealthy. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a fortune" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe becoming very wealthy. As Ludwig highlights, it's used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While it's generally neutral in register, it often implies ambition or opportunity. If you are looking for similar expressions, you can consider options like "amass great wealth" or "strike it rich" for more nuanced meanings. The Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is standard and acceptable for use in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get rich

A simpler and more direct way of saying "become wealthy".

become wealthy

A more general term for achieving a state of wealth.

earn a great deal of money

A straightforward description of acquiring a large sum of money.

amass great wealth

Focuses on the gradual accumulation of wealth.

accumulate riches

Similar to amass wealth, emphasizing the gradual collection of riches.

strike it rich

Implies a sudden and often unexpected acquisition of wealth.

build an empire

Suggests creating a large and successful business, leading to wealth.

generate substantial income

Focuses on the continuous creation of wealth through income.

turn a profit

Focuses on generating profit, which leads to fortune accumulation

reap financial rewards

Highlights the positive outcome of financial success.

FAQs

How can I use "make a fortune" in a sentence?

You can use "make a fortune" to describe someone who has become very wealthy, for example: "He hoped to "make a fortune" in the stock market".

What's the difference between "make a fortune" and "get rich quick"?

"Make a fortune" generally implies a more sustainable or legitimate way of becoming wealthy, while "get rich quick" suggests a fast and often risky or unethical approach.

Is it correct to say "making a fortune" instead of "make a fortune"?

Yes, "making a fortune" is the gerund form and can be used as a noun phrase, for example: "Making a fortune" was his primary goal in life.

What are some alternatives to "make a fortune"?

Some alternatives include "amass great wealth", "strike it rich", or "become wealthy", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.