What does dime in a dozen mean Meaning and Definition
What does dime in a dozen mean
Pronunciation
(/ˈdɪm ɪn ə ˈdɒzən/)
Part of Speech
Idiomatic expression
Definition
A phrase used to describe a quantity of something, such as items or people, where the majority are average or mediocre, with only a few being exceptional or remarkable.
Etymology
The phrase “a dime a dozen” originated in the late 19th century, when a dime was a common price for a dozen items, such as eggs or postcards. Over time, the phrase evolved to describe a situation where something is plentiful and of low value, but with a few exceptional items that stand out.
Usage Notes
This idiomatic expression is often used in informal conversations to describe a situation where there is an abundance of something, but only a few items are notable or impressive.
Cultural References
The phrase “a dime a dozen” has been used in various forms of media, including films, literature, and music.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Five bucks a pound
- A dime to a dollar
- A penny to a pound
Related Words or Phrases
- Common
- Average
- Mediocre
Collocations
- A dime a dozen eggs
- A dime a dozen ideas
- A dime a dozen people
Frequency of Use
The phrase “a dime a dozen” is a common idiom used in everyday conversations, with a moderate level of frequency in modern language.
Common Misspellings
- Dimeinadose
- A dime each
- A dime the dozen