Question

Identify the meaning of the idioms or phrases given in capitals in the sentence: Books like this are A DIME A DOZEN

• A. common and of a little value
• B. a rare collection
• C. new arrivals
• D. old collection

Hint:

Remember: If you can buy many for a small amount of money, they aren't rare! Use this logic for any idiom involving "pennies" or "dimes."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: The idiom "A dime a dozen" is a quantitative metaphor. It uses the idea of high volume for a low price to describe the availability and perceived worth of an item or a type of person.

Step 1: Etymological Background.
A "dime" is a 10-cent coin in the U.S. If you can get an entire "dozen" (12 items) for just ten cents, it implies that the items are incredibly cheap and extremely easy to find. This suggests that they are not unique or special in any way.

Step 2: Interpreting the metaphorical meaning.
When we say something is "a dime a dozen," we mean it is so common that it is not considered valuable or interesting. It is used to dismiss the importance or rarity of something. For example, if "adventure movies are a dime a dozen," it means there are so many of them that none of them stand out.

Step 3: Matching with Options.

• A rare collection: This is the direct antonym.
• New arrivals/Old collection: These refer to the timing or age of items, whereas the idiom refers to their abundance and worth. Option (A), "common and of a little value," perfectly captures the essence of the idiom. Final Answer: Option A