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Red cent
01
an amount of money that is extremely small
What is the origin of the idiom "red cent" and when to use it?
The idiom "red cent" has its origin in the United States during the 19th century. It refers to the small copper coin known as the "cent," which used to have a reddish hue due to its copper content. This phrase is used to emphasize the idea that there is no money or an extremely small amount of money involved.
Example
The company's stocks plummeted, and investors were left without a red cent of their initial investments.
The business venture failed, and they lost every red cent they had invested.
The old house wasn't worth a red cent in its current condition and needed significant renovations.
Despite working long hours, she didn't receive a red cent in wages from her unscrupulous employer.
After losing his job, he didn't have a red cent left to pay his bills.
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