Dirt Cheap
Meaning
“Dirt cheap” means extremely inexpensive. When something is described this way, the speaker means that it costs very little (so little that the price seems almost unbelievably low).
The expression uses “dirt” as a comparison for something plentiful and virtually worthless. It is not meant literally; it is simply an informal way to emphasize how cheap something is.
Usage
“Dirt cheap” is informal and commonly used when talking about prices, purchases, services, accommodation, or bargains. It usually expresses surprise or satisfaction about getting something at a very low price.
The phrase is often positive when describing a bargain, although it can sometimes suggest that the low price reflects poor quality. A common pattern is “I got it dirt cheap,” meaning the speaker paid very little for it.
Example Sentences
- I found this jacket at a thrift store, and it was dirt cheap.
- The hotel was surprisingly comfortable and dirt cheap.
- We bought the furniture dirt cheap because the store was closing down.
- You can get fresh fruit dirt cheap at the local market.
- That old car looks rough, but I got it dirt cheap.