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Region: US | Usage example: When the new client signed, we hit pay dirt.

Hit pay dirt

Meaning

Achieve success or value after effort.

Usage

Used when someone finally achieves tangible results.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Mining term for striking a rich vein of ore.

American gold rush slang from the nineteenth century.

Related Idioms

Back to the drawing board

Return to planning stage after a failure.

Bang for your buck

Good value for the money spent.

Bury the hatchet

Make peace after a quarrel.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.