made ends meet

/meɪd ɛndz miːt/

VERB

1. To have enough money to cover basic expenses

To earn or manage enough money to pay for essential living expenses and meet financial obligations, often despite having limited income or resources.

Used when someone manages to pay for necessities such as food, housing, bills, and other everyday expenses despite financial constraints.

During tough times, the family creatively made ends meet by cutting unnecessary expenses.
With frugal living and careful budgeting, they successfully made ends meet on a modest income.
The young couple, starting a new business, struggled initially but eventually made ends meet through perseverance and hard work.
They worked multiple jobs to make ends meet in the expensive city.
Despite the economic challenges, she always found a way to make ends meet for herself and her children.

Used when someone finds practical ways to obtain necessities, earn a living, or continue managing everyday life under difficult circumstances.

After losing his job, he took temporary work and did whatever he could to make ends meet.
The family relied on small side jobs to make ends meet while rebuilding their business.
She found creative ways to make ends meet while studying and supporting her household.