There are several synonyms for the phrase "making a living" that can be used to add variety to your written or spoken language. One alternative is "earning a wage," which implies that one is compensated for their work in a monetary form. Another option is "supporting oneself financially," which suggests that one is self-sufficient and relying solely on their own income to meet their needs. "Sustaining oneself" is a similar phrase that emphasizes the ongoing effort needed to maintain financial stability. Finally, "making ends meet" is an idiom that describes the challenge of earning enough money to cover living expenses. These synonyms all reflect different aspects of the concept of "making a living" and can be used to add depth to your writing or conversations.