The Village Idiom

two penn'orth

Two penn'orth means a small or insubstantial contribution or opinion.

Informal · Filed under T

In a sentence

  • Let me give you my two penn'orth on the matter.
  • He always has to add his two penn'orth to every conversation.
  • I don't want to impose, but can I put in my two penn'orth?

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "two penn'orth" originated in England and is primarily used in British English. It consists of two distinct parts: "two" and "penn'orth." The first part, "two," represents a quantity or amount. The second part, "penn'orth," is a short form of the word "pennyworth," which means "a small amount or value."

This idiom is often used to convey a person's opinion or thoughts on a particular matter. It suggests that the speaker is offering their input without hesitation, sometimes even when it may not be requested.

The phrase can also carry a hint of criticism, implying that the speaker's contribution may be considered excessive or of little value. It can suggest that the speaker tends to offer more of their opinion than is necessary or appropriate for a given situation.

It is worth noting that "two penn'orth" is an informal phrase and may not be commonly used in formal or professional settings. It is often used in casual conversations, informal discussions, or in a lighthearted manner among friends.

Although the exact origin of the idiom is unclear, it likely stems from the historical use of pennies as a common form of currency in England. The idiom may have its roots in the practice of providing one's opinion or advice in exchange for a small monetary amount, specifically two pennies' worth.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.