banker’s dozen: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘banker's dozen’ mean?
A "banker's dozen" is a phrase used to describe a situation where someone receives fewer items than expected or promised. It refers to a practice where bankers, who are known to be conservative, give customers only 12 items instead of the standard 13 in a dozen.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "five will get you ten" suggests a strong probability or certainty that a particular outcome will occur. It implies that if something is highly likely to happen, it can be predicted with confidence.
The idiom "dole out" means to distribute or give out something, usually in small quantities or portions.
The idiom "dime's worth" implies a small or insignificant value, often used to express the lack of significance or impact of something.
The idiom "dime a dozen" means that something is very common and easy to find, usually referring to things that are not valuable or special.
The idiom "decimal dozen" refers to a group of 10 items or people, rather than the traditional dozen of 12. It is used to describe a smaller or incomplete quantity, often in a humorous or exaggerated way.
The idiom "chicken feed" means a small amount of money or something that is of little value or significance.
The idiom "cheaper by the dozen" means that something is less expensive when bought in a larger quantity or bulk. It suggests that the more of something you buy, the lower the cost per unit will be.
Mysterious Numerical Practices
The idiom "banker's dozen" is a term used to describe a specific quantity of objects that is different from what is expected. It is derived from the banking world, where accuracy and integrity are of utmost importance. This term adds a sense of deception and unreliability to the concept of counting.
A related term is "baker's dozen," which refers to a count of thirteen instead of the customary twelve. This term is believed to have originated as a play on words, contrasting the trustworthiness associated with bankers against the idea of adding or subtracting from a fixed number.
Another related term is "decimal dozen," which refers to a count of ten instead of twelve. This term is less commonly used but further emphasizes the idea of deviating from the expected quantity.
Similarly, the term "baker's half dozen" is used to describe a count of six instead of the usual six. This term retains the association with deceit and unreliability, highlighting the unorthodox counting methods.
Lastly, the term "dime a dozen" is used to describe something that is common or abundant. This term derives from the idea that something can be purchased for a cheap price, as a dime is worth ten cents. It is related to the concept of a "banker's dozen" as it emphasizes the abundance or quantity of something, which can deviate from the expected norms.
It is important to note that the idiom "banker's dozen" is not widely used in contemporary language. However, it still holds relevance in specific contexts where precision and reliability are emphasized. In the United States, where the importance of banking is deeply ingrained in society, this term carries weight and imparts a sense of caution and skepticism when encountering situations that deviate from expected norms.
The idiom "banker's dozen" serves as a testament to the complexities and nuances of language. It reflects the juxtaposition of trust and deceit, mirroring the uncertainties inherent in the banking world. While less commonly used than other idiomatic expressions, it leaves a lasting impression and serves as a reminder of the intricacies embedded within our language and culture.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "banker's dozen" can be used in a sentence:
- He gave me a banker's dozen of donuts, meaning 13 instead of the usual 12.
- The shopkeeper, known for his generosity, always packed a banker's dozen of eggs for his regular customers.
- My boss requested a banker's dozen of pens to distribute among the team members.
More "Mathematics" idioms
