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pay through the nose
/ˌpeɪ θruː ðə ˈnoʊz/◆idiom
pay excessively
After the car accident, she had to pay through the nose for the repairs.
She had to pay an extremely high amount for the car repairs.
informal
to pay an excessive amount for something
I paid through the nose for that concert ticket because it was the only one left.
I paid far more than the ticket was worth due to high demand.
Tourists often pay through the nose for souvenirs in popular areas.
Tourists are frequently charged inflated prices for souvenirs.
Used to emphasize the high cost of something, often due to necessity or lack of alternatives.
Collocations
pay through the nose forpay an excessive amount for
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Context
Use 'pay through the nose' when emphasizing that someone paid much more than something is worth, often due to necessity or lack of alternatives. Avoid using it in formal writing.
Gold Rule
Idiom vs. Literal Meaning
Always use 'pay through the nose' figuratively to mean paying excessively. Never use it literally, as it would not make sense in modern contexts.
Word Origin
The phrase dates back to the 16th century and is believed to refer to the practice of cutting off the noses of those who failed to pay taxes or fines, symbolizing severe punishment. Over time, it evolved to mean paying an exorbitant amount.
Usage Notes
This idiom is used in informal contexts and implies that the price paid was unfairly high. It is not typically used in formal or professional settings.
Word Breakdown
pay
to give money in exchange for goods or services
verbthrough the nose
excessively or unfairly high
prepositional phraseEnglish Dictionary