Phrase guide

on a dime

prep_phrase · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

prep_phrase

Meaning 1

Within a very short distance; especially, with agile precision in a very confined space and suddenly.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: US, idiomatic

Examples

  • This boat can turn on a dime.
  • This car has excellent brakes that will stop it on a dime.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: on a sixpence

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

1 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Spanish: por el canto de un duro — within a very short distance