Parlay Meaning in English
word
Definition
To use past success, money, or experience to achieve something even more valuable. In gambling, it also means to bet winnings again to try to win more.
Usage & Nuances
Often used in business and self-help, commonly appears as 'parlay X into Y' (e.g., 'parlay experience into a new job'). In gambling, 'parlay a bet' means to keep risking winnings. Somewhat formal and less common in casual speech.
Example Sentences
She tried to parlay her small investment into a big company.
basic
He parlayed his sports winnings into a successful business.
basic
Gamblers often parlay small wins into bigger bets.
basic
She managed to parlay her summer job into a full-time position at the company.
natural
With some luck, you could parlay that idea into something huge.
natural
They managed to parlay a single viral video into a whole media career.
natural