expression, godan verb (-ru)
get big returns on a small investment; throw a sprat to catch a mackerel
Proverbial expression meaning to gain a large profit or advantage from a small outlay or effort. Often used when someone gets something valuable in return for a modest gift or favor.
I brought some cheap sweets as a souvenir and got a bottle of fine wine in return. That's exactly getting a big return on a small investment.
彼は少額の投資で大きな利益を得て、海老で鯛を釣るようなものだと言われた。
He made a large profit from a small investment, and people said it was like throwing a sprat to catch a mackerel.