hit the big time: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘hit the big time’ mean?

"Hit the big time" is an idiom that means achieving great success or fame, often referring to someone who becomes very successful in their career or achieves a high level of recognition. It implies reaching a significant, noteworthy position or achieving a major breakthrough in one's life or profession.

Idiom Explorer

Unforeseen Beginnings

The idiom "hit it big" is closely related to "hit the big time." Both phrases convey the idea of achieving great success, but "hit it big" often refers to a more sudden or unexpected accomplishment. When someone "hits it big," it implies that they have achieved a significant level of success or fame in a short period of time.

The phrase "big break" is another idiom that is closely associated with "hit the big time." A "big break" is a stroke of luck or an opportunity that propels someone to success or recognition. It can be seen as the moment when someone's hard work and talent finally pay off, and they are able to achieve their goals or reach a higher level of success.

Similarly, the idiom "strike it rich" is often used in relation to "hit the big time." It refers to suddenly becoming very wealthy or successful, often as a result of a fortunate event or business venture. When someone "strikes it rich," it means that they have accumulated a great deal of wealth or achieved a high level of success in a relatively short amount of time.

These related idioms all share the common theme of achieving significant success or recognition. Whether it's "hitting the big time," "hitting it big," getting a "big break," or "striking it rich," they all represent moments of achievement and accomplishment that can change someone's life.

When it comes to "hitting the big time," it's important to note that success looks different for everyone. For some, it may mean reaching the top of their industry or gaining widespread recognition. For others, it may be achieving financial stability or personal fulfillment. Ultimately, "hitting the big time" is a subjective measure of success that varies from person to person.

Her breakthrough led to fame, success, and recognition.

Throughout history, there have been countless examples of individuals who have "hit the big time" in various fields. From musicians and actors to entrepreneurs and athletes, the stories of those who have achieved great success are both inspiring and diverse.

One such example is the iconic singer and actress, Judy Garland. Garland rose to fame during the Golden Age of Hollywood and is best known for her role as Dorothy in "The Wizard of Oz." Her talent, charisma, and captivating performances quickly catapulted her to stardom, and she became one of the most beloved and successful entertainers of her time. Garland's story is a testament to how someone can "hit the big time" through their exceptional talent and hard work.

Another example of someone who "hit the big time" is Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook. Zuckerberg's story is a modern-day rags-to-riches tale. He started Facebook as a college student and watched it grow into one of the most influential and successful companies in the world. Zuckerberg's entrepreneurial journey is a prime example of how someone can "hit the big time" through innovation and perseverance.

The examples of Judy Garland and Mark Zuckerberg demonstrate that "hitting the big time" can happen in any field or industry. Whether it's entertainment, technology, or any other realm of life, success and achievement can come to those who work hard, seize opportunities, and have the right combination of talent and luck.

While "hitting the big time" is a momentous achievement, it's important to remember that success is not always guaranteed or permanent. The path to success is often filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. It requires a great deal of resilience, determination, and hard work to maintain success once it has been attained.

Additionally, the concept of "hitting the big time" can be subjective and ever-changing. What may be considered "the big time" today may look different tomorrow. Success and recognition are not static, and it's important to continue to set new goals and strive for greater accomplishments.

The idiom "hit the big time" is a widely used and versatile phrase that captures the essence of achieving significant success or recognition. It has its roots in the entertainment industry but has since expanded to encompass success in various fields of life. The related idioms "hit it big," "big break," and "strike it rich" all convey similar concepts of achieving great success or fortune. Whether it's through talent and hard work, seizing opportunities, or a stroke of luck, "hitting the big time" is a milestone that many aspire to reach.

Example usage

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

  1. After years of struggling, she finally hit the big time when she landed a role in a blockbuster movie.
  2. His band hit the big time after their single reached the top of the charts.
  3. Once he signed a deal with a major record label, the singer knew he was about to hit the big time.

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