dime a dozen
Meaning
Very common and easy to find; not special or valuable because there are so many of them.
Origin
From early 20th‑century American usage: a “dime” is 10 cents, so something costing a dime for a dozen items suggests extreme cheapness and abundance.
Notes
Implies abundance and low value/uniqueness. Can sound dismissive or critical; used for things, people, or ideas.
Examples
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These days, basic smartphone apps are a dime a dozen, so it’s hard to stand out.
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Tourist shops selling the same souvenir magnets are a dime a dozen around here.
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In this industry, empty promises are a dime a dozen—results are what matter.
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Generic advice online is a dime a dozen, but good mentoring is rare.
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Freelance designers are a dime a dozen, so you need a strong portfolio to get noticed.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as a predicative complement: “X is a dime a dozen.” Also common as “(They’re) a dime a dozen.” Rarely pluralized; typically keeps the article “a.”
Synonyms
- common
- ten-a-penny (uk)
- two a penny (uk)
- a penny a dozen
- common as dirt
Antonyms
- one of a kind
- rare
- few and far between