like cheese at fourpence: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Like cheese at fourpence is an idiom that originated in the United Kingdom during the 18th or 19th century. The exact meaning of this idiom is not widely known, but based on available information, it seems to describe something of very poor quality or value, as well as something that is easily obtained or acquired. The comparison to cheese, historically a cheap and perishable food item, further adds to the connotation of something lacking worth.

The idiom like cheese at fourpence is similar to the idiom "pennies on the dollar." Both idioms emphasize the idea of something being of very low value. While "pennies on the dollar" refers specifically to something being significantly cheaper than its actual worth, like cheese at fourpence conveys a general sense of poor quality or low worth.

Add more about "not worth a dime"

The idiom "not worth a dime" is another expression that shares similarities with like cheese at fourpence. Both idioms suggest that something is of very little value. While "not worth a dime" implies that something has no value at all, like cheese at fourpence conveys the idea that something is of very poor quality or not worth much.

Add more about "a little bit of bread and no cheese"

The idiom "a little bit of bread and no cheese" is an idiom that is related to like cheese at fourpence. Both idioms express the concept of lacking something. While "a little bit of bread and no cheese" specifically refers to not having enough food, like cheese at fourpence implies a general sense of lacking value or worth.

Add more about "dime's worth"

The idiom "dime's worth" is similar to like cheese at fourpence in that both expressions convey the idea of something being of very little value. While "dime's worth" specifies the value of ten cents, like cheese at fourpence uses the reference to "fourpence" to indicate a small amount of money or value.

Add more about "small change"

The idiom "small change" is related to like cheese at fourpence in that both idioms suggest something of low value. While "small change" refers specifically to a small denomination of currency, like cheese at fourpence implies a general sense of something being easily obtainable or lacking value.

Like cheese at fourpence remains an idiom with an obscure origin and limited usage. However, its existence offers insight into the linguistic curiosities and nuances of the English language. While the exact meaning and origins of this idiom may never be fully understood, it serves as a reminder that there are countless idioms and expressions waiting to be explored and discovered.