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highway robbery
/hˈaɪweɪ ɹˈɑːbɚɹi/
/hˈaɪweɪ ɹˈɒbəɹi/
Highway robbery
01
an act of overcharging
DialectAmerican
American
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "highway robbery" and when to use it?
The idiom "highway robbery" originated from the criminal activity of robbing travelers on the highways or roads, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries. It is used to describe a situation where someone is charged an extremely high price for goods or services, especially when the cost is perceived as unfair or excessive.
Examples
Buying a bottle of water at the amusement park felt like a highway robbery; it was several times more expensive than outside.
The cost of parking at the event was a highway robbery, making attendees frustrated with the steep fees.
02
robbery of travellers on or near a public road
DialectAmerican
American
