for a buck and a half

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a buck and a half" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that costs one dollar and fifty cents, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "I found this great book at the thrift store for a buck and a half."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

For a buck and a half, it can't be beat.

The New York Times

Esposito's also served a cheap breakfast, for a buck and a half, and Gerard could be found there many mornings, wolfing it down.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Can you sell half the company just at a buck and a half — a Euro — a pound and half?

The New York Times

For another buck and a half, I took the plunge.

The New York Times

I'm the only one in music history who refused to hire Frank Sinatra for seven and a half bucks.

The New York Times

Ten bucks a head for membership, another six and a half for those fine flowing robes.

The New York Times - Books

With eight games remaining, the Knicks trail the Milwaukee Bucks by three and a half games, after the Bucks' 91-86 victory at Miami tonight, in the battle for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The New York Times - Sports

Sam Cassell had 22 points and Glenn Robinson 17 as the Bucks remained one and a half games behind Orlando for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The New York Times - Sports

Computer access was costing her twenty bucks for a half hour.

The New York Times

Nine and a half bucks for a KFC meal?

Forbes

The victory moved the Knicks, with 16 games to play, two and a half games ahead of the Bucks for the final slot.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for a buck and a half" in informal contexts when you want to emphasize the low cost of something in a relatable way. It adds a touch of colloquial charm to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "for a buck and a half" in formal reports, academic papers, or business correspondence. Opt for more precise language like "for one dollar and fifty cents" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a buck and a half" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb to indicate the price or cost of something. As Ludwig examples show, it directly relates an object or service to its cost. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for a buck and a half" is a grammatically sound and informal way to express a price of one dollar and fifty cents. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's best suited for casual contexts and should be avoided in formal writing. The phrase is relatively rare but understood within News & Media. Consider more precise alternatives like "for a dollar fifty" in professional settings. When used appropriately, this colloquialism adds a touch of relatability to your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a dollar fifty

Uses a more direct monetary value instead of the colloquial "buck and a half."

at a dollar fifty

Similar to 'for a dollar fifty', but uses 'at' to indicate the price.

for one dollar and fifty cents

A more formal and precise way of stating the price.

for a cheap price

Focuses on the general low cost rather than the specific amount.

for next to nothing

Emphasizes extreme inexpensiveness, implying an even lower cost.

for a pittance

Highlights the small amount of money involved, often with a slightly negative connotation.

at a bargain price

Indicates that the item is being sold for less than its usual value.

for peanuts

A colloquial term indicating a very low price.

at a throwaway price

Highlights that the cost is so low the item is practically being given away.

for a song

Implies that the item was purchased at a very low and pleasing price.

FAQs

What does "for a buck and a half" mean?

The phrase "for a buck and a half" means something costs one dollar and fifty cents. It's a colloquial way to refer to that amount of money.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "for a buck and a half"?

It's suitable in informal settings, such as casual conversations or lighthearted writing, where a more relaxed tone is acceptable. Avoid it in formal or professional contexts.

What can I say instead of "for a buck and a half"?

You can use alternatives like "for a dollar fifty", "at a dollar fifty", or "for one dollar and fifty cents" depending on the context.

Is "for a buck and a half" grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase is grammatically correct, although it's considered informal. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.