The idiom "pretty penny" means a large amount of money, usually more than expected or more than one is willing to spend. It is often used to describe the cost of something that is expensive or valuable.
For example, if someone says "I had to pay a pretty penny for that car," it means they paid a lot of money for it. Or if someone says "That designer dress costs a pretty penny," it means the dress is very expensive.
The phrase "pretty penny" is often used in a negative context, as it implies that the cost of something is high and may be seen as unreasonable or excessive. However, it can also be used in a positive context to express admiration for something that is expensive but worth the cost.
Overall, the idiom "pretty penny" is a colorful and informal way to describe a large amount of money, and is commonly used in everyday conversation.
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• My sister's wedding cost a pretty penny; the venue, the dress, the catering, everything was expensive.
• The antique vase sold for a pretty penny at the auction, much more than anyone expected.
• He made a pretty penny by investing in the stock market early on.
• John spent a pretty penny on his new car, but he thinks it's worth it.
• She saved a pretty penny by buying the groceries on sale.
• I had to pay a pretty penny to repair my laptop, but it's working fine now.