fast buck

noun

, Slang.

1. money made easily or quickly and sometimes unscrupulously:

   He speculated briefly in the commodities market in the hope of making a fast buck.

Other Words From

• fast-buck adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of fast buck¹

An Americanism dating back to 1945–50

Idioms and Phrases

Money made quickly and easily and, often, dishonestly. For example, He's all right, but his partner is just out for a fast buck . This expression gave rise to fast-buck artist for an individual, especially a swindler, intent on making money quickly. [ Slang ; mid-1900s] Also see easy money .

Example Sentences

It’s a scam that some in the country turn to during tough economic times, observers say, creating an influx of fake lawyers who feign legal expertise in order to make a fast buck.

From New York Times

“All Bahamians need to realize, don’t mind the fast buck. Because when the material is gone, the money is gone, too,” Glinton said.

From Seattle Times

That responsibility requires doing what’s right long-term, not just what might make a fast buck.

From Seattle Times

The new breed of retail investor has acquired the image of a flighty, speculative day trader just looking to make a fast buck, especially in the riskier, frothier parts of financial markets such as crypto.

From Reuters

Most are assembled and published with the harmless motivation of making a fast buck on a hot topic.

From Washington Times