eke out a living

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For growers who were already battling to eke out a living, the situation has only added to their plight.

From Barron's • Jan. 26, 2026

In the spring of 1879, during planting season, local farmers were evaluating their options for how to eke out a living.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 17, 2025

Instead they eke out a living as best they can.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2024

Settled in, Charles was able to eke out a living by gigging long nights in various after-hours clubs.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 10, 2023

Not finding what they had hoped or expected, many returned home, but others stayed and tried to eke out a living.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French