English Idioms

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Penny for your thoughts

Meaning

The idiom "penny for your thoughts" is used to ask someone what they are thinking or daydreaming about. It implies that the speaker is curious about the other person's thoughts and wants to know more about them.

Usage

  • "What are you thinking about? Can I get a penny for your thoughts?" - asked while sitting with a friend at a coffee shop
  • "I was just lost in thought when you interrupted me, can I get a penny for my thoughts?" - said to someone who has just been interrupted while daydreaming
  • "You know what? I think I'm going to take a break and let my mind wander. Can I get a penny for your thoughts?" - said to someone at work when they want some time alone
  • "I'm sorry, I was just deep in thought when you called me. Can I get a penny for my thoughts?" - said to someone on the phone when they are distracted by their own thoughts
  • "Can I get a penny for your thoughts? I've been trying to come up with an idea for our project and I can't seem to think of anything." - asked to a colleague while brainstorming ideas for a project

Roots and History

The origin of the phrase is uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the 16th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the practice of asking passersby how much they would pay to hear their thoughts or opinions on a particular topic. Another theory suggests that it is related to the idea of paying for someone's time or attention, and that the phrase has evolved over time to simply mean "what are you thinking about?"

Synonyms in English

  • What do you think?
  • Do you have any thoughts on this?
  • What are your thoughts on [insert topic here]?
  • Can I pick your brain for a minute?
  • What's going on in that head of yours?

Synonyms in other languages

  • Spanish - ¿Qué pensas sobre esto? (What do you think about it?)
  • French - Qu'est-ce que tu penses sur cela? (What do you think about it?)
  • Italian - Che pensi su questo? (What do you think about it?)
  • German - Wie denkst du über das? (How do you think about it?)
  • Japanese - あなたはどう思っていますか？ (What do you think about it?)

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