turn an honest penny

turn an honest penny ( idiom)/tɜrn ən ˈɑnəst ˈpɛni/

Meaning

• Earn money through honest work.
• To make a living by engaging in legitimate and ethical employment.
• Generate income through honest, honorable and lawful methods.
• To obtain earnings by performing work that is considered morally and legally upright.

Example Sentences

1. After years of odd jobs, he finally found a way to turn an honest penny as a carpenter.
2. She preferred to turn an honest penny rather than rely on her family's wealth.
3. Despite the tempting shortcuts, they chose to turn an honest penny through hard work.
4. Many ...