have to show for
Be able to exhibit as a result of one's work or expenditure. For example, I've been working all day and I have absolutely nothing to show for it, or He has some very fine paintings to show for the vast amount of money he's spent. This idiom was first recorded in 1727.
Words nearby have to show for
have the last laugh,
have the makings of,
have the say,
have to,
have to do with,
have to show for,
have two left feet,
have up,
have words with,
have-a-go,
have-not