make something of

1. Render important or useful; improve. For example, Dad hoped Tim would make something of himself . [Late 1700s]

2. Give undue importance to something, especially a problem or disagreement, as in Ann decided to make something of it when Bob said women's studies is not a real discipline . This usage sometimes is put as make something out of nothing , as in So what if Jim had coffee with your girlfriend—don't make something out of nothing . For an antonym, see make nothing of , def. 1.

Example Sentences

I’m from the Bay Area, but I moved down to Los Angeles when I was 18 to go make something of myself.

From Los Angeles Times

"I always dreamt of going to school, to learn and to make something of myself," she says.

From BBC

Given that oil and gas account for almost a third of Moscow's state revenue and more than 60% of its exports, 100% tariffs could make something of a dent Russia's finances.

From BBC

Four roommates, each chasing a different dream, all of us messy, creative and trying to make something of ourselves.

From Los Angeles Times

She left school at 15 with no qualifications but a determination "to make something of myself".

From BBC