What does “Pennies on the dollar” mean?
"Pennies on the dollar" means buying something for a very low price.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I got this designer handbag for pennies on the dollar at a thrift store.
Example
He sold his old car for pennies on the dollar compared to its original price.
Example
During the clearance sale, all the items were sold for pennies on the dollar
Is “Pennies on the dollar” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Pennies on the dollar” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Pennies on the dollar” effectively in context?
You can use "Pennies on the Dollar" to describe buying something for a very low price. It emphasizes the idea that the item was purchased at a significant discount compared to its original value. For example, if someone asks how you got a high-end designer handbag, you might say, 'I got it for "pennies on the dollar" at a thrift store.'
- 1Shopping
She found a beautiful necklace at the flea market and bought it for pennies on the dollar.
- 2Selling
He needed to sell his old furniture quickly, so he listed it online for pennies on the dollar.
- 3Clearance Sales
During the end-of-season sale, all the winter coats were marked down to pennies on the dollar.
Similar phrases to “Pennies on the dollar”:
To buy something at an extremely low price
Example
He found a brand new laptop for a steal at the garage sale.
A bargain
Something purchased at a good price or with favorable terms
Example
The antique shop had a great bargain on vintage furniture.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Pennies on the dollar” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Pennies on the Dollar" is unknown.
Is “Pennies on the dollar” common in everyday conversation?
"Pennies on the Dollar" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe getting a great deal or finding something at a significantly reduced price.
What tone does “Pennies on the dollar” have?
"Pennies on the Dollar" conveys a tone of excitement and satisfaction. It's often used to highlight the value and savings obtained when purchasing something at a heavily discounted price.
Can “Pennies on the dollar” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Pennies on the Dollar" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a specific type of bargain. You can use it when talking to friends, family, or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as business negotiations or financial discussions.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I bought this car for "pennies on the dollar".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I got it for "pennies on the dollar"!' to express excitement about a great deal.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- a steal
- a great deal
- a discount
- a markdown
- a sale
Antonyms
- overpriced
- expensive
- costly
- full price
- high-priced
