sell dearly: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘sell dearly’ mean?
The idiom "sell dearly" means to fight or resist strongly in a situation, particularly when faced with a disadvantage or loss. It implies that one should make every effort to protect their interests and not give up easily.
Idiom Explorer
"Sell the pass" is an idiom that means to betray or deceive someone, especially for personal gain. The origin of the idiom comes from historical military strategies where a pass (a narrow path through mountains or hills) would be strategically sold by a person to the opposing army, allowing them to gain access and defeat their own side. The idiom is often used to describe situations where someone betrays their own team, group, or allies.
The idiom "sell someone a bill of goods" means to deceive or mislead someone, especially by making false or exaggerated claims about a product or service.
The idiom "sell like hot cakes" means that something is selling very quickly or in large quantities, often due to high demand or popularity.
An idiom meaning to persuade someone to buy something they already have in abundance or do not need, often highlighting the salesperson's exceptional persuasive skills.
The idiom "sell down the river" means to betray or deceive someone, especially for personal gain or to avoid trouble, by putting them in a difficult or disadvantageous situation, often without their knowledge or consent.
The idiom "sell down" means to reduce or decrease the number or amount of something that is being sold. It typically refers to selling stocks or shares in a company.
The idiom "sell bargains" refers to the act of convincing someone to buy something at a lower or discounted price. It implies the skill or ability to negotiate a better deal for the buyer.
The idiom "sell one's body" means engaging in sexual activities in exchange for money. It is a euphemism for prostitution and implies the act of using one's body as a commodity for financial gain.
The idiom "run for one's money" means to provide a strong competition or challenge, often to someone who is expected to win easily.
Deciphering the Enigma
The idiom "sell dearly" is a phrase that originated in the 17th century. It means to sell something at a high price or to make a great effort to achieve something, even if it means sacrificing something valuable. The exact etymology of the phrase is not widely known, but its meaning and usage have remained consistent throughout history.
One interpretation of the idiom is related to bargaining or haggling in a marketplace. When someone "sells dearly," they demand a high price for something in order to obtain the best possible value. This concept extends beyond just monetary value and can be applied to any situation in which someone seeks to maximize their gain.
The metaphorical use of the idiom suggests that one should approach a situation with determination, resilience, and a willingness to make sacrifices. When someone "sells dearly," they emphasize the idea of fighting for what they want and not settling for less. It encourages individuals to pursue their goals aggressively and to make every effort to achieve them, even if it means facing hardships or giving up something cherished.
The idiom "sell dearly" is primarily used in informal and figurative contexts rather than in literal negotiations or commercial transactions. It can be found in various forms of communication, including literature, journalism, and everyday speech. The versatility of the phrase allows it to be applied to a wide range of circumstances where the concept of maximizing value or making sacrifices is relevant.
The idiom "sell dearly" serves as a reminder of the importance of valuing what we have and being willing to fight for our desires. Whether in the realm of commerce or personal ambitions, the phrase encapsulates the notion of putting in extra effort and not settling for mediocrity. It encourages individuals to sell their bargains, to fight for their life, and to fight in their corner.
The idiom "fight a losing battle" is related to "sell dearly" in the sense that both idioms convey a sense of determination and resilience in the face of difficult circumstances. When someone is fighting a losing battle, they are engaged in a difficult struggle that is unlikely to end in victory. However, just like someone who "sells dearly," they may choose to fight with all their might and make the most of the situation, even if the odds are stacked against them.
On the other hand, the idiom "sell one's soul" is related to "sell dearly" in a different way. While "sell dearly" emphasizes the idea of maximizing value and fighting for one's desires, "sell one's soul" has a negative connotation. It suggests that someone is willing to give up something valuable, such as their principles or integrity, in exchange for personal gain. In the context of "sell dearly," it serves as a reminder to not compromise one's values while pursuing goals.
The idiom "fight for one's life" shares a similar theme with "sell dearly." When someone is fighting for their life, they are engaged in a battle to survive. It requires determination, resilience, and a willingness to make sacrifices. In this sense, both idioms convey the idea that one should give their all and not settle for anything less than what they truly desire.
The final related idiom, "fight one's corner," also aligns with the theme of determination and resilience present in "sell dearly." When someone is fighting their corner, they are standing up for themselves and their beliefs, even when facing opposition. Just like someone who "sells dearly," they are not willing to back down easily and are prepared to make sacrifices to defend their position.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *sell dearly* can be used in a sentence are:
- He knew he was about to lose the game, but he decided to sell his remaining pieces dearly.
- During the negotiations, the seller made sure to sell the product dearly, demanding a high price.
- Although they were outnumbered, the defenders of the fort fought bravely, determined to sell their lives dearly.
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