How Do You Spell BARGAIN-BASEMENT?

Pronunciation: [bˈɑːɡɪnbˈe͡ɪsmənt] (IPA)

The phrase "bargain-basement" is typically spelled with a hyphen between the two words. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈbɑːɡən ˈbeɪsmənt/. It is a compound word made up of "bargain," meaning a good deal or inexpensive item, and "basement," meaning the lowest level of a building. Together, the phrase refers to products or services that are sold at very low prices or for very little profit. The term "bargain-basement" has been used since at least the 1920s.

BARGAIN-BASEMENT Meaning and Definition

  1. Bargain-basement is an adjective that refers to something or someone that is of low quality, mediocre, or cheaply priced, often used as a metaphorical comparison to goods found in a basement of a store very keen on selling its products at low prices. The term originates from the concept of a bargain, which typically represents a good deal or a favorable transaction where the buyer obtains something at a significantly lower cost than its usual price. Adding the word "basement" to this expression emphasizes that the item or service being referred to is of particularly low quality or value.

    In colloquial usage, bargain-basement can be applied to a wide range of domains, including products, services, performances, or personal attributes. It implies that the subject being described lacks outstanding features, originality, or high standards, making it a subpar option compared to other available choices. The term often denotes a sense of being inexpensive, but this does not necessarily imply a negative connotation in all situations, as it may be seen as an advantage for individuals seeking affordability. However, it is important to note that bargain-basement items may be associated with poor craftsmanship, lack of durability, limited functionality, or low aesthetic value. In summary, the term "bargain-basement" encompasses the idea of something being of substandard quality or value, usually at a low price point.

Common Misspellings for BARGAIN-BASEMENT

  • vargain-basement
  • nargain-basement
  • hargain-basement
  • gargain-basement
  • bzrgain-basement
  • bsrgain-basement
  • bwrgain-basement
  • bqrgain-basement
  • baegain-basement
  • badgain-basement
  • bafgain-basement
  • batgain-basement
  • ba5gain-basement
  • ba4gain-basement
  • barfain-basement
  • barvain-basement
  • barbain-basement
  • barhain-basement
  • baryain-basement
  • bartain-basement

Etymology of BARGAIN-BASEMENT

The word "bargain-basement" is a compound term consisting of two elements: "bargain" and "basement".

The word "bargain" originates from the Old French word "bargaigne" which means "business transaction" or "negotiation". It was derived from the Old French verb "bargaignier" meaning "to haggle" or "to trade". "Bargain" entered the English language around the 14th century.

The word "basement" comes from the Middle English term "bacement" which refers to the action of basing something. It is derived from the Old French term "bas" meaning "low" or "lower". "Basement" has been used in English since the late 18th century to describe the lowest floor of a building.

Idioms with the word BARGAIN-BASEMENT

  • bargain-basement "bargain-basement" is an idiom that refers to something being of low quality or value, typically associated with being cheap or inexpensive. It can also suggest that something is being sold at a very discounted or reduced price.

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