be the making of (one)
To be a positively transformative event in one's life. He used to be irresponsible with money, but buying a home was the making of him—he's never been late with a single payment! In many ways, surviving that internship was the making of me. Living away from home for the first time in college can be the making of a person, especially if it's the first time they have to clean up after themselves!
be the making of (someone or something)
To be the event or occurrence that leads to sustained success or a desired level of achievement. This big promotion could really be the making of Caroline's career. This meeting could be the making of me, so I can't miss it for anything. If we land this big investor, it could finally be the making of our start-up!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
be the making of
Be the means or cause of progress or success, as in Marriage will be the making of him. This idiom, using making in the sense of "advancement," was first recorded about 1470.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.