turn a trick —(sl.)
1. have casual sexual relations, especially for money:
- Some of the young prostitutes live at home and turn tricks merely for pocket money.
2. (Underworld) commit a successful robbery:
- Campbell’s claim was that he hadn’t turned a trick in a year but the money had to be coming from somewhere.
turn the trick—accomplish one’s purpose; achieve the required result:
- It is our hope and prayer that Mr. Farley may turn the trick. We should be glad to see any administrator make a go of the postal service.