hit/strike pay dirt

phrase

chiefly US, informal

: to do, find, or get something that results in money or success

The band hit pay dirt with their first single.

The police struck pay dirt when a witness came forward with new information.

Examples of hit/strike pay dirt in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The talented tailback broke a pair of tackles at the line to hit pay dirt. — Charlotte Observer, 17 Nov. 2025

In late September, trees don their rich autumn jewel tones, and visitors rush to Dahlonega in the North Georgia Mountains with the enthusiasm of the gold miners who hit pay dirt here in 1828. — Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 2 Sep. 2024

Already, Russ and Michelle had hit pay dirt, encountering a Riversider named Beth Cawiezell doing yard work. — Rick Montgomery, Kansas City Star, 30 Jan. 2024

But the 49ers asked the DMV for an extension and now have until May 31 to hit pay dirt or fumble the opportunity. — Paul Rogers, The Mercury News, 5 Jan. 2024

Other Global Crossing executives hit pay dirt from stock sales as well. — Richard Sandomir, New York Times, 9 Nov. 2023