hit it big: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘hit it big’ mean?

The idiom "hit it big" means to achieve great success or win a large amount of money, often unexpectedly or after a long period of hard work.

Idiom Explorer

Decoding Success

The idiom "hit it big" refers to achieving sudden and significant success or fame. It is commonly used in American English and has evolved to be used in various contexts and industries.

The verb "hit" in this idiom emphasizes the forcefulness and impact of achieving success or fame. It signifies a sudden rise to prominence or a breakthrough moment that propels individuals into the spotlight.

The origins of this idiom are unclear, but it can be traced back several decades in popular culture references, including literature, films, and music. Its widespread usage reflects its integration into common vernacular.

The entertainment industry often uses the idiom "hit it big" to describe individuals or acts that achieve noteworthy levels of success or recognition. Musicians, actors, and other performers can hit it big through their talent and hard work, experiencing a sudden rise to fame and fortune.

However, the idiom is not limited to the entertainment industry. It can be used more broadly to describe significant success or financial gain in any field, such as business, sports, or entrepreneurship. "Hitting it big" implies a transformative event or endeavor that propels individuals or companies forward.

While the idiom has a positive connotation associated with achieving success or fame, it also acknowledges the element of unpredictability. The word "hit" suggests chance or luck, indicating that success or fame can be elusive or uncertain.

Another related idiom is "strike it rich." This phrase is often used interchangeably with "hit it big" and refers to achieving sudden and significant wealth. It can be seen as a subset of "hitting it big," focusing specifically on financial success.

In addition, the idiom "hit it up" is related to "hit it big." "Hit it up" means to visit or contact someone. While this idiom has a different context and usage, it still incorporates the idea of hitting or striking something, similar to "hit it big."

The idiom "hit it big" embodies the concept of achieving sudden and significant success or fame. It is commonly used in American English and has various applications in different industries. The related idioms "strike it rich" and "hit it up" further expand on the concept of achieving wealth and making contact with others. Its origins may be uncertain, but its widespread usage and versatility make it a familiar and relevant phrase in contemporary language.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "hit it big" can be used in a sentence:

  1. After years of struggling, the aspiring singer finally hit it big and signed a recording contract with a major label.
  2. The lottery winner hit it big and became an overnight millionaire.
  3. Despite initial setbacks, the entrepreneur's innovative product eventually hit it big in the market.

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