for a dollar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a dollar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing a price, cost, or value of something, often in a casual or informal manner. Example: "You can get a cup of coffee for a dollar at that new café down the street."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

I graduate from level 15 to 16 for a dollar, grow to 500 to 501 for a dollar.

TechCrunch

For a dollar.

The New Yorker

DVD discs sell for a dollar.

The Economist

I wouldn't kiss you for a dollar".

The New Yorker

For a dollar, you could go anywhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

To rob a bank for a dollar?

The New Yorker

T.P. Four rolls for a dollar".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I was looking for a $25 couch".

The New York Times

All of this for a $5 entrance fee.

The New York Times

— for a $10 million bonus.

The New York Times

For a $50 gift card?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for a dollar" to emphasize affordability or minimal cost in casual contexts. It's particularly effective when highlighting deals or comparing prices.

Common error

Avoid using "for a dollar" when the implied value is significantly higher or lower than expected. This can lead to miscommunication or sarcasm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a dollar" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the price or cost of something. It answers the question 'how much?' or 'at what price?' This is validated by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Tech

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for a dollar" is a common and grammatically correct way to express the price of something, often implying affordability. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, with the most frequent being news and media. While generally neutral in register, it can shift towards informality. When writing, use this phrase to emphasize low cost or when discussing deals, but avoid it where the implied value is significantly different to prevent miscommunication. If a more formal tone is needed, consider alternatives like "at the cost of one dollar".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a dollar

Focuses on the price point, simplifying the prepositional structure.

costing a dollar

Emphasizes the action of costing a specific amount.

priced at a dollar

Highlights the act of setting a price at that amount.

for one dollar

Specifies the quantity of dollars involved.

with a dollar

Implies possession or use of a dollar for a transaction.

at the cost of a dollar

Formalizes the description of the price.

for a buck

Uses a slang term for dollar, making it more informal.

in exchange for a dollar

Highlights the act of trading something for a dollar.

for the sum of one dollar

More formal and precise way of stating the price.

a dollar's worth

Refers to the value received for a dollar.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "for a dollar" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "at the cost of one dollar" or "priced at one dollar" to convey the same meaning with increased precision and professionalism.

What's a more casual alternative to "for a dollar"?

For a more casual tone, you can use the phrase "for a buck", which is a common slang term for a dollar.

Is it correct to say "at a dollar" instead of "for a dollar"?

While "at a dollar" is grammatically acceptable, "for a dollar" is generally more common and widely understood, particularly when describing the price of something.

When should I use "for a dollar" versus specifying the item's quantity?

Use "for a dollar" when the quantity is already understood or implied. If emphasizing the quantity, specify it, such as "three items for a dollar".