English Reference
verb

earn

v.
US /ˈɝn/ UK /ˈɜːn/ earn UK spelling earning, earns

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    to receive money as payment for the work you do.

    to receive money in return for labour or services rendered; can be used transitively with an amount or intransitively.

    Simple

    She works at the hospital and earns a good salary every month.

    In context

    After years of entry-level positions, he finally secured a role where he could earn enough to support his family comfortably.

    Pitfall
    He wins a lot of money at his job. He earns a lot of money at his job.

    Use 'earn' for money you get from working. Use 'win' for money from luck, games, or competitions.

    makeget paid
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    to get something like respect, praise, or a rest because you have worked hard for it.

    to merit or acquire a non-monetary reward, such as reputation or status, through one's actions or qualities.

    Simple

    He worked very hard and finally earned the respect of his boss.

    In context

    The team's consistent performance throughout the season earned them a place in the national finals.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    to produce a profit or interest on money that has been invested.

    to yield a return on investment or capital.

    Simple

    The money in my savings account earns a small amount of interest each year.

    In context

    Diversifying the portfolio ensured that the assets continued to earn a steady return despite the volatile market conditions.

Don't confuse

earn vs win — Earn is the result of work or effort, while win is the result of luck, a game, or a competition.

Usage earn money · earning potential · earn a living

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated