bargain basement: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘bargain basement’ mean?
The idiom "bargain basement" refers to a place where goods are sold at very low prices. It is often used metaphorically to describe something that is inexpensive or of low quality.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "knock down" means to forcefully bring someone or something to the ground. It can also refer to reducing the price or value of something significantly.
The idiom "great deal" means a large amount or quantity of something. It is used to indicate that there is a significant or considerable extent or degree of something.
The idiom "good value" refers to something that is worth the money spent on it, providing a high quality or benefit relative to its cost.
The idiom "go for a song" means that something is sold very cheaply or at a much lower price than its actual value.
The idiom "for a song" means to purchase or acquire something at a very low cost or for a very small amount of money.
"Fool's bargain" is an idiom that refers to a deal or agreement that appears to be advantageous at first, but ultimately turns out to be a mistake or a bad decision.
A "fire sale" refers to a situation where goods or assets are sold at very low prices, typically because the seller needs to get rid of them quickly, often due to financial distress or urgency.
The phrase "down cellar" is an idiom that means to go or move to the cellar or basement of a building. It is often used to describe actions or directions related to going or being in a basement.
An idiom meaning to take shortcuts or do something in a faster or easier way, often sacrificing quality or thoroughness. It is used to describe a situation where someone tries to save time, money, or effort by finding an easier or quicker way to achieve a goal.
The idiom "cut below" refers to an action or behavior that is considered to be of lower or inferior quality or standard in comparison to something else.
Exploring Low-Cost Offers
One idiom that has been used in the English language for many years is "bargain basement." The term "bargain basement" refers to a section within a store where goods are sold at a significantly reduced price. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century and has since become a widely recognized expression.
The phrase "bargain basement" is often associated with the idea of finding good deals or inexpensive items. It is frequently used to describe sales, discounts, or places where consumers can find products for a fraction of their usual cost.
The exact origins of the idiom are uncertain, but it is commonly believed to have developed during the rise of department stores in the early 1900s. As these stores expanded, they needed to find ways to increase sales and attract customers. One strategy was to establish a section within the store where goods were sold at lower prices.
The concept of a "bargain basement" quickly gained popularity, and the idiom became synonymous with the idea of finding a great deal. Over time, the idiom has been used in various contexts outside of the retail industry, encompassing any situation where something of value is obtained at a significantly reduced cost.
When examining the meaning of the idiom "bargain basement" for a US audience, it represents the opportunity to find affordable products or services. It carries a sense of excitement and anticipation, as individuals hope to discover hidden gems or unusual deals.
The idiom "bargain basement" has also adapted to the online realm, with many e-commerce platforms and websites offering virtual bargain basements where users can find discounted items. This further demonstrates the idiom's adaptability and its ability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
The idiom "a good deal" is related to the concept of a "bargain basement" in that it signifies finding something at a favorable price. It emphasizes the satisfaction that can be derived from obtaining quality items at a lower cost.
The idiom "fool's bargain" is another related expression that implies making a deal or purchase that turns out to be unfavorable or not as valuable as initially thought. This idiom serves as a cautionary tale, contrasting the positive connotations of a "bargain basement."
Lastly, the idiom "good value" is closely associated with a "bargain basement" as it denotes the quality and worth of a product or service in relation to its cost. It implies that the item being purchased provides a high level of quality or satisfaction for the price paid.
The idiom "bargain basement" has a rich history and continues to be widely used today. Its origins within the retail industry have evolved to encompass the broader concept of finding value and obtaining quality products at a reduced cost. This idiom resonates with individuals who enjoy the thrill of discovering great deals and has become a part of everyday language in the United States and beyond.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *bargain basement* can be used in a sentence:
- I found this amazing dress for only $10 at the bargain basement of the department store.
- After the closing sale, the store owner decided to move all the remaining stock to the bargain basement.
- They were able to purchase several high-quality furniture pieces at a fraction of the original price from the store's bargain basement.
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