A Dime a Dozen – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever seen something so common that it’s almost boring? Maybe coffee shops on every corner, phone cases in every color, or people claiming to be “influencers”? In English, we say those things are a dime a dozen! This practical idiom describes something that’s very common, easy to find, and not particularly valuable or special.
What Does “A Dime a Dozen” Mean?
“A dime a dozen” means something is so plentiful that it has little value or uniqueness. Think of it like fruit sold so cheaply—12 for 10 cents—that no one thinks twice about buying it. The phrase isn’t about actual dimes or shopping; it’s a simple way to say, “There are tons of these—nothing special.”
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or neutral conversations with friends, coworkers, or classmates when describing things that are overabundant or unremarkable—like generic advice, trendy gadgets, or common skills. It’s often used to contrast something ordinary with something truly rare or valuable. This idiom is informal but widely understood—great for everyday chats, not formal writing.
Example Sentences
- Those motivational quotes are a dime a dozen—what matters is taking action.
- Good-looking phones are a dime a dozen; what I need is one that lasts all day.
- He thinks his idea is unique, but honestly, it’s a dime a dozen.
- Freelance writers are a dime a dozen—you’ve got to stand out to get hired.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “I found another app that promises to make me fluent in a month.”
Jamie: “Those are a dime a dozen. What you really need is consistent practice.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use this phrase to describe something rare, expensive, or hard to find. It only applies to things that are overly common or unimpressive—not to genuine treasures.
❌ Don’t say: “Original Picasso paintings are a dime a dozen.” (They’re extremely rare!)
✅ Do say: “Cheap phone chargers are a dime a dozen—but most break in a week.”
Practice Tip
Next time you see something extremely common—like “overnight success” stories or generic T-shirts—say: “That’s a dime a dozen.” It helps you express that something lacks uniqueness in natural English.
Final Note
Now you can use “a dime a dozen” to cut through the noise and point out what’s truly ordinary! It’s a sharp, useful phrase that helps you talk about value and rarity in everyday life. Keep using it—and remember, real value is never a dime a dozen.