buy a clunker
/baɪ ə ˈklʌŋkər/phrase★Intermediate💡 purchase a used car in poor condition
informal
To purchase a used car that is in poor mechanical or cosmetic condition, often due to age or wear.
She bought a clunker but spent months fixing it up.
She purchased a used car in bad shape and spent time repairing it.
💡
The term is often used to describe a car that is unreliable or requires significant repairs.
Collocations
buy a clunkerpurchase a used car in poor condition
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Usage Context
This phrase is typically used in casual conversation when discussing used cars or budget purchases.
📖Word Origin
The term 'clunker' likely comes from the sound of a poorly running engine, suggesting a car in bad condition. The phrase 'buy a clunker' became popular in the U.S. as a way to describe purchasing a used car that is in poor shape.
📝Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts, especially when discussing used cars or budget purchases.
Word Breakdown
buy
to purchase
roota
indefinite article
articleclunker
a car in poor condition
nounEnglish Dictionary