What does “Cash cow” mean?
"Cash cow" means a business or investment that consistently generates a large amount of profit.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The new product has become a cash cow for the company.
Example
Investing in real estate has been a cash cow for many people.
Example
The restaurant's delivery service has become a cash cow during the pandemic
Is “Cash cow” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Cash cow” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Cash cow” effectively in context?
You can use "Cash Cow" to describe a business or investment that consistently generates a large amount of profit. It emphasizes the financial success and stability of the entity. For example, if someone asks about a successful venture, you might say, 'That new product has become a cash cow for the company.'
- 1Business
The new product has become a cash cow for the company.
- 2Investment
Investing in real estate has been a cash cow for many people.
- 3Pandemic Impact
The restaurant's delivery service has become a cash cow during the pandemic.
Similar phrases to “Cash cow”:
Money-spinner
Something that generates a lot of money or profit
Example
The new app has become a money-spinner for the developer.
Something that brings in a lot of money or profit
Example
The bakery's custom cake orders have become a moneymaker for the business.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Cash cow” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Cash Cow" can be traced back to the dairy industry. In this context, a cow that produces a lot of milk is considered a valuable asset because it generates a steady income. The term was later adopted in business to refer to a product, service, or investment that consistently generates a large amount of profit.
Is “Cash cow” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Cash Cow" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation, especially in business and finance contexts. People often use it to describe a successful and profitable business or investment.
What tone does “Cash cow” have?
"Cash Cow" conveys a tone of financial success and stability. It's often used to highlight the profitability and value of a particular entity.
Can “Cash cow” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "cash cow" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a widely recognized expression in business and finance. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional reports.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The new product has become a cash cow for the company.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That investment is a real "cash cow"!' to imply its profitability.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- profit machine
- gold mine
- cash generator
- money-making machine
- lucrative venture
Antonyms
- money pit
- financial drain
- loss-making business
- unprofitable investment
