# make something of oneself

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/make-something-of-oneself
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To become successful on one's own initiative.

## Examples

- She worked hard to make something of herself.
- His parents encouraged him to study hard so he could eventually make something of himself.
- Despite growing up in poverty, he possessed the ambition and drive necessary to make something of himself in the competitive world of finance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.