make a name for oneself

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a name for oneself" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe an individual's attempt to establish a reputation for themselves such as through their accomplishments. For example, "John worked hard in his career to make a name for himself as an accomplished businessman."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The runners-up are ID2155366's terse "Mike and Ron, playing tag" and jonemm's inventive "Handle omni-shambles with knowledge, experience – real leadership"; the winner is HipsterPriest's plausible "Walk away from workmanlike performance to make a name for oneself".

The Guardian

The pair also highlight the changing face of New York economically, and the way that impacts the ability to make a name for oneself in nightlife today.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is a case study in making a name for oneself, or making a fool of oneself — depending on your point of view.

The New Yorker

There are those of course who say that making a name for oneself as an intellectual may not be the smartest course for a performer.

The New York Times - Books

I'd imagine that making a name for oneself in South Africa is a bit easier than in America.

Huffington Post

Make a name for yourself?

Huffington Post

Make a name for StarClan.

WikiHow

Try to make a name for yourself.

WikiHow

Make a name for your club.

WikiHow

Make a name for the club/clan.

WikiHow

Make a name for your new game.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the actions taken by the individual align with the goal of establishing a positive reputation. The phrase often implies a positive connotation, so the actions should reflect that.

Common error

Avoid using "make a name for oneself" when the achievements are minor or insignificant. The phrase implies a significant level of accomplishment and recognition.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic expression "make a name for oneself" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of establishing a positive reputation and becoming well-known through one's efforts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a name for oneself" is a grammatically correct idiomatic expression used to describe the action of establishing a positive reputation and becoming well-known, as validated by Ludwig AI. It's generally neutral in register, suitable for various contexts. While not extremely frequent, it is understood to suggest one's ambition and the pursuit of prominence. When using this phrase, it is beneficial to specify the field or area in which the person is trying to achieve recognition. Consider alternative phrases like "establish a reputation" or "become well-known", depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become well-known

A more straightforward way of saying "make a name", lacking the idiomatic nuance.

establish a reputation

Focuses more on building a general reputation rather than specifically becoming well-known.

distinguish oneself

Highlights setting oneself apart from others through unique qualities or achievements.

make a mark

Emphasizes having a significant impact or influence, not just gaining recognition.

gain recognition

Focuses on the act of being recognized rather than the active effort to become known.

rise to prominence

Highlights the process of becoming important or well-known, often in a specific field.

carve a niche

Suggests creating a unique position for oneself, especially in a specific market or field.

achieve recognition

Focuses on receiving acknowledgement for accomplishments.

gain notoriety

Can imply gaining fame for negative reasons, unlike the more neutral "make a name".

build a career

Implies a long-term professional development and recognition.

FAQs

How can I use "make a name for oneself" in a sentence?

You can use "make a name for oneself" to describe someone who is working hard to establish a positive reputation, as in, "She moved to New York to "establish a reputation" and "make a name for herself" in the fashion industry".

What's a similar phrase to "make a name for oneself"?

Alternatives include "establish a reputation", "distinguish oneself", or "become well-known". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "making a name for oneself" the same as "making a fool of oneself"?

No, these phrases have opposite meanings. "Making a name for oneself" implies achieving positive recognition, while "making a fool of oneself" means behaving in a way that is embarrassing or ridiculous.

What does it mean to "make a name" in a particular field?

To "make a name" in a field means to "rise to prominence" and become respected or well-known within that field through your accomplishments and contributions.