A pretty penny

Pro Tip 1/3

Idiomatic Expression

Understand 'a pretty penny' means a lot of money but is not meant to be taken literally.

His collection of rare stamps must have cost a pretty penny.

Pro Tip 2/3

Figurative Speech

Recognize it as an exaggeration; it suggests something is expensive but not necessarily pretty or a penny.

That antique vase looks old but is worth a pretty penny.

Pro Tip 3/3

Context Matters

Use it in informal conversations about expensive purchases or valuable items.

I'd love to buy that painting, but it's a pretty penny.