Translation guide
Expresses how someone earns enough money to live. Japanese uses set phrases like 生計を立てる or 食べていく, and the best choice depends on formality and whether you emphasize the job, the income, or just getting by.
To say that someone works to support themselves financially, in a neutral or slightly formal way.
The most direct equivalent. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese. Often followed by the means of earning.
He makes a living as a translator.
How do you make a living?
Literally 'earn living expenses'. More concrete and slightly less formal than 生計を立てる.
I make a living with part-time jobs.
Literally 'eat and go on', meaning to earn enough to get by. Very common in casual conversation.
It's hard to make a living just from music.
Similar to 生計を立てる but slightly more literary or old-fashioned.
She makes a living with a small shop.
To specify the job or activity that provides income.
Attach the job or activity to で. The standard pattern.
He makes a living by painting.
Casual version. Often used with だけで (only by) or なんとか (somehow).
Can you make a living on YouTube?
Literally 'do ~ and live'. Emphasizes the lifestyle aspect.
He makes a modest living farming.
To express that someone earns just enough to survive, often with difficulty.
Adds 'somehow' to the casual 食べていく. Implies struggling but managing.
I'm barely making a living as a freelancer.
Means living frugally or on a small scale. Often used for modest self-employment.
I'm making a humble living in the countryside.
Literally 'not troubled for food'. Means earning enough to not starve, but not much more. Somewhat rough or masculine.
To say someone earns a comfortable or high income.
To emphasize the source of income, such as writing, art, or investments.
生計を立てる is neutral/formal and fits most situations. 食べていく is casual and implies just getting by. Use 生計を立てる in writing or polite conversation; use 食べていく with friends.
How do you make a living? (polite)
How do you make a living? (casual)
Do not translate 'make a living' word-for-word as 生活を作る or 生きるを作る. These are unnatural and not understood. Use the set phrases above.
It's hard to make a living as an artist.
I barely make a living with my small shop.
With my current job I can make enough to get by.
She makes a good living as a lawyer.