That new car must have cost a pretty penny.
pretty penny
idiomChiefly preceded by a: a considerable amount of money; a high income or price.
Origin
disputed originFrom pretty (“(dated) moderately large, considerable”) + penny (“money in general”).
The repairs on the old house cost a pretty penny, but the results were worth every cent.
Although the rare antique clock cost a pretty penny, the collector believed its historical significance justified the substantial investment.
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a pound to a penny
Very likely; almost certainly.
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bad penny
A person or thing which is unpleasant, disreputable, or otherwise unwanted, especially one which repeatedly appears at inopportune times.
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just another pretty face
Someone who is attractive, but not too distinguished in other areas.
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not a pretty sight
Something disappointing, disquieting, disreputable, or otherwise unworthy of admiration.
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not just a pretty face
Something that is more useful, versatile, or intrinsically valuable than might be assumed.
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penny for your thoughts
Used to inquire into the thoughts and feelings of another, especially when the person appears pensive or conflicted.
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penny in the fusebox
An improvised repair made with no regard for safety.
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penny pincher
One who spends little money; one who is very frugal or cautious with money.