Meaning
Very common, ordinary, and of little value or special quality because there are so many of them available.
It describes people, ideas, or items that are easily replaceable, lacking uniqueness, or oversaturated in the market.
Origin
The phrase comes from the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, following the widespread minting of the 10-cent coin (dime). Mass-produced goods—such as apples, eggs, or cheap dime novels—were often sold at advertisements offering 12 items for just one dime. Because something that costs only a dime for a whole dozen is extremely cheap and abundant, the phrase naturally became a metaphor for anything common and unremarkable.
Examples
Cheap plastic toys like these are a dime a dozen at any seaside shop.
Self-proclaimed experts on social media are a dime a dozen these days.
Do not worry about losing that client, opportunities like this are a dime a dozen.
A: I was thinking of writing a fantasy novel about dragons.
B: Honest truth? Those plots are a dime a dozen right now.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'A dime a dozen' mean?
Very common, ordinary, and of little value or special quality because there are so many of them available.
It describes people, ideas, or items that are easily replaceable, lacking uniqueness, or oversaturated in the market.