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THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE

Make a name for yourself

Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.

01 / UNDERSTAND

Meaning in plain English

To become well known or respected for what you do.

02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT

The expression in a sentence

  1. She made a name for herself as a patient and creative teacher.

03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Quick idiom quiz

Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.

Can you recall the expression?

Which expression from this lesson matches this meaning?

To become well known or respected for what you do.
Show the answer

Make a name for yourself — To become well known or respected for what you do.

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Make it yours

Write one sentence using “Make a name for yourself” about your own life.

Check your sentence

Does your sentence match this meaning?

To become well known or respected for what you do.

Compare: She made a name for herself as a patient and creative teacher.

Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.

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GO DEEPER

More ways to understand and use it

When to use it

Use it for building a reputation in a field or community. It suits career and study conversations.

More examples in context

  • The bakery is making a name for itself with its unusual breads.
  • He hopes to make a name for himself in furniture design.

Usage note

Use as for a role and in for a field. Match yourself to the subject: herself, himself or itself.

A short conversation

A: How is Leena’s design business doing?
B: She is making a name for herself with her recycled furniture.
A: I would love to see her work.

One more practice question

Who is making a name for themselves?

A. A designer becoming widely respected for excellent work.
B. A designer whose work nobody has seen or heard of.

Check your answer

A. Their achievements are earning them recognition and respect.

Related lessons

Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.

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