AI for Breakfast

Post 122 - It’s the weekend - Idiom of the day

Penny for your thoughts

Figurative meaning

"A penny for your thoughts" is a phrase used to ask someone what they are thinking about, often when they appear to be lost in thought or unusually quiet. It implies a polite curiosity about the person's inner musings.

Typical usage

This idiom is typically used in casual conversation when someone notices that another person is deep in thought or unusually quiet. For example, if you see a friend staring off into the distance with a contemplative look, you might say, "A penny for your thoughts?" to invite them to share what's on their mind.

Origin

The origin of the phrase "a penny for your thoughts" dates back to the 16th century. The first recorded use is attributed to Sir Thomas More in his book "Four Last Things," published around 1522. The phrase was used to convey the idea that someone's thoughts, no matter how trivial or profound, were worth at least a penny.

At that time, a penny was considered a small but respectable amount of money, symbolising the value placed on hearing another person's thoughts. This phrase has endured over the centuries, even though the value of a penny has diminished significantly, because it captures a timeless curiosity about the thoughts and feelings of others.