Do well out of somebody/something

Pro Tip 1/3

The phrase may imply exploitation or unfair advantage, so use it carefully to avoid offending someone.

I wouldn't say he did well out of his uncle's will—it sounds a bit insensitive.

Pro Tip 2/3

It suggests a successful or beneficial result, often financially or in terms of personal gain.

She did well out of the merger and got a promotion.

Pro Tip 3/3

Sometimes it's used to suggest that the benefit came at someone else's expense or was undeserved.

It seems he did well out of the controversy, even though others suffered.