price is right: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘price is right’ mean?

The idiom price is right means that something is priced at a fair or reasonable amount, making it a good deal or value for the money. It suggests that the price matches the quality or worth of the item or service being offered.

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The idiom *price is right* is a phrase commonly used in English language, specifically in American English, to convey the idea that something is of good value or worth the money. This idiom is often used when discussing the purchasing or selling of goods or services, and it indicates that the price being offered is fair and reasonable.

One of the key aspects of the *price is right* idiom is the idea of fairness. When this phrase is used, it implies that the price being discussed is not too high or too low, but rather just right. It suggests that both the buyer and the seller are in agreement that the price being offered is fair and satisfactory.

The origins of the *price is right* idiom can be traced back to the concept of market value, which is the price at which an item or service can be bought or sold in an open marketplace. The market value is determined by factors such as supply and demand, competition, and the perceived worth or quality of the item. When the *price is right*, it means that the market value has been achieved.

It is important to note that the *price is right* idiom is not limited to the buying and selling of physical products. It can also be used in other contexts, such as in negotiations or agreements. In these situations, it signifies that the terms being proposed are agreeable and reasonable to all parties involved.

The price of this item is a bargain.

The idiom *price is right* has gained popularity and widespread usage, particularly in American culture, due to its association with the long-running television game show "The Price Is Right." This show, which has been on the air since 1972, features contestants competing to correctly guess the prices of various items in order to win prizes. The phrase "the price is right" became synonymous with the show and eventually entered the vernacular as a way to express the concept of fairness in pricing.

The *price is right* idiom is commonly understood and used in everyday conversations. It signifies the belief that a certain price is of good value and worth the money. It conveys the idea of fairness and agreement between buyer and seller regarding the value of a good or service.

While the *price is right* idiom is widely used, it is worth considering the subjective nature of determining what is the "right" price. The concept of value can vary greatly depending on individual perspectives, personal preferences, and market fluctuations. What may be considered a good value for one person could be perceived as too expensive or not worth the money by another.

When using the *price is right* idiom, it is important to remember that it is a general phrase and not a fixed rule. It represents a shared understanding that the price being offered is fair and satisfactory to all parties involved.

The *price is right* idiom is a widely used phrase in American English that signifies the belief that a certain price is fair and appropriate. It conveys the idea of fairness and agreement between buyer and seller regarding the value of a good or service. Despite the phrase's association with a popular game show, its usage extends beyond buying and selling and encompasses negotiations and agreements in various contexts. However, it is important to recognize the subjectivity inherent in determining the "right" price, as individual perspectives and market factors can greatly influence perceptions of value.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "price is right" can be used in a sentence:

  1. The antique shop had a beautiful painting for sale, and the price was right, so I decided to buy it.
  2. We need to find a new apartment within our budget, and luckily I found a great place where the price is right.
  3. The car dealer offered a special discount on the model I wanted, and the price was right, so I couldn't resist purchasing it.

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