[make] a living
1
to earn an amount of money that enables one to support oneself and pay for one's needs
- She works as a freelance writer to make a living.
- Many people make a living by pursuing careers in various fields such as medicine, engineering, or education.
- He chose to become a musician to make a living doing what he loves.
- After retiring, he continued to make a living by offering consulting services in his expertise.
- Despite facing challenges, he made a living as a street musician, playing his guitar in the city square.