go for a song: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘go for a song’ mean?
The idiom "go for a song" means that something is sold very cheaply or at a much lower price than its actual value.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "in one go" means doing something all at once or in a single attempt, without pausing or stopping. It suggests efficiency and not wasting time.
An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning. One such idiom is "in one go."
The idiom "in for a penny, in for a pound" means that once you commit to doing something, you might as well fully commit and go all the way, regardless of the cost or consequences.
The idiom "in for a dime, in for a dollar" means that once you commit to something, you are fully committed and have to see it through to the end, regardless of the consequences or risks involved.
The idiom "I have a bridge to sell you" means that someone is trying to deceive or trick you by offering something that is obviously false or of no value.
The idiom "go to town on" means to do something with great enthusiasm or energy, often with a focus on doing it thoroughly or excessively.
The idiom "go to town" means to work or proceed vigorously and with enthusiasm.
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 "going rate" refers to the prevailing or current price or rate for a particular product, service, or activity. It suggests that there is a standard or accepted value that is commonly understood or expected in a given situation.
The idiom "go for it" means to take action without hesitation or fear, pursuing something with determination and enthusiasm.
The Symbolic Symphony
The idiom "go for a song" originated in the 19th century, and its exact origin is not known with certainty. It is believed to have derived from the practice of auctioneers singing or reciting verses in a musical manner to encourage bidding during auctions. This expression has evolved over time to refer to something being sold or obtained at a very low price.
The idiom "go for a song" is commonly used in informal and colloquial contexts. It is often employed to describe situations where something is sold or purchased at a significantly reduced or undervalued price. It can also be used metaphorically to describe situations where an opportunity or deal is obtained effortlessly or without much effort.
It is important to note that the idiom "go for a song" is primarily used in British and American English. While it may not be as commonly used as other idioms, it still retains relevance in certain contexts, particularly discussions related to buying and selling items or referring to inexpensive purchases.
The etymology of the idiom "go for a song" is metaphorical in nature, as it does not convey its literal meaning. It evokes the image of a song being sold or valued very low, emphasizing the idea of something being obtained or sold at a bargain price. This metaphorical usage adds depth to the idiom and highlights the creative and imaginative aspects of language.
The idiom "go for a song" has a clear meaning and usage in the English language. Its origin in auction culture, its colloquial nature, and its metaphorical usage provide a rich understanding of its significance. While not as widely employed as some other idioms, it still serves as a useful expression to convey the idea of something being obtained or sold at an exceptionally low price. The idiom's history and linguistic features invite further exploration into the complexities of language and its ability to create vivid imagery.
The idiom "go for a song" is related to the idiom "for a song". Both idioms convey the idea of something being obtained or sold at a very low price. While "go for a song" specifically refers to the act of something being sold or obtained at a low price, "for a song" is a more general expression that can apply to various situations where something is obtained cheaply or at a great bargain.
Another related idiom is "go for broke". This idiom is used to describe a situation where someone is taking a big risk or giving their all in an endeavor. It can be related to "go for a song" in the sense that both idioms involve some level of risk or engagement. However, while "go for a song" emphasizes obtaining or selling something at a low price, "go for broke" focuses on risking everything or going all out in a particular pursuit.
The idiom "go for a song" has a rich history and usage in the English language. Its origin in auction culture, its colloquial nature, and its metaphorical usage contribute to its significance. While not as commonly used as some other idioms, it still serves as a useful expression to convey the idea of something being obtained or sold at an exceptionally low price. The idiom's relationship with other idioms such as "for a song" and "go for broke" further adds to its depth and versatility. Exploring the complexities of language through idioms offers a deeper appreciation for the creativity and expressive power of words.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "go for a song" can be used in a sentence:
- He sold his old car for only $500, it practically went for a song.
- During the garage sale, most of the items went for a song because the prices were so low.
- She couldn't believe her luck when she found the antique ring at the flea market for such a low price; it went for a song.
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