make it: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘make it’ mean?
The idiom "make it" means to be successful or achieve a desired outcome. It can refer to reaching a destination, reaching a goal, or accomplishing something. The phrase is commonly used in situations where someone overcomes challenges or obstacles to achieve a positive result.
Idiom Explorer
Put on the map is an idiom that means to gain recognition or become well-known. It refers to the act of bringing something or someone into public attention, making them more notable or important.
The idiom "push it" means to try to make something happen or to encourage someone to take action. It can also refer to asking someone to go faster or work harder. The phrase is often used in a motivating or urging context.
The idiom "move the needle" means to make a significant impact or achieve noticeable progress in a particular situation or goal.
The idiom "move mountains" means to do something extremely difficult or achieve the impossible, often in the face of great obstacles or challenges.
The idiom "make the grade" means to achieve a satisfactory level of performance or meet the required standards, typically in education or a specific task.
The idiom "make light work of" means to complete a task easily or quickly without much effort or difficulty. It implies that the task was not challenging and required minimal time or energy to accomplish.
The idiom "make it up as one goes along" means to improvise or create something without a plan or preparation. It refers to the act of inventing or deciding things spontaneously as the situation unfolds, without prior knowledge or set rules.
Unveiling the Significance
The idiom "make it" is a widely used expression in the English language. It has several meanings and can be used in various contexts.
One of the primary meanings of "make it" is to succeed or achieve something. This usage can be traced back to the mid-19th century. It is believed to have originated from the idea of "making one's mark," which refers to leaving a lasting impression or achieving recognition in some way. Over time, this phrase evolved into "making it," indicating the act of achieving success or reaching a desired goal.
Another common meaning of "make it" is to arrive or attend a particular event or appointment. This usage dates back to the early 20th century and is often associated with punctuality or timeliness. The term "make it" in this context implies the ability to appear at a specified time or place, emphasizing the importance of being present or showing up.
Additionally, "make it" can be used as a request or invitation to join or participate in an activity or event. This usage is more informal and is often used in casual conversations or social settings. The phrase "let's make it" or "we should make it" is commonly employed to suggest immediate action or to express enthusiasm about a particular plan or idea.
Furthermore, "make it" can also refer to the act of surviving or enduring a difficult situation or challenge. This usage is often associated with resilience and perseverance. When someone says, "I don't know how I'll make it through this," they are expressing their doubts or uncertainties about coping with a particular hardship or adversity.
To "get there" is closely related to the idea of "make it." It implies achieving a specific destination or goal. While "make it" generally refers to the overall act of succeeding or achieving, "get there" specifically emphasizes the journey or process of reaching a desired outcome. Whether it is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, or putting in the necessary effort, both idioms convey the idea of striving towards a specific objective.
Similarly, "make happen" is another idiom related to "make it." It points to the active role of making something occur or become a reality. While "make it" can refer to achieving success or attending an event, "make happen" focuses on the action and effort required to bring about a particular outcome. It implies taking initiative, making things work, and ensuring that the desired result is achieved.
Overall, the idiom "make it" encompasses various meanings and has become an integral part of the English language. Its versatility allows for its application in different contexts, making it a valuable phrase in both everyday conversations and formal settings.
As with many idioms, the specific meaning of "make it" can vary depending on the context and the individuals using it. Its usage has evolved over time, adapting to the ever-changing linguistic landscape. While the facts about the idiom "make it" are well-documented, its full potential and nuances continue to intrigue both language enthusiasts and scholars alike. The idiom "make it" embodies the complexities and nuances of the English language, reminding us of its capacity to convey meaning and evoke emotions in a concise and vibrant manner.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "make it" can be used in a sentence:
- He's working really hard to make it in the music industry.
- I'm not sure if I can make it to the meeting on time.
- She had a difficult journey, but she managed to make it through.
More "Verb" idioms
