to pay a very high price · to pay a premium price for something
Ever wanted something so badly—like a limited-edition sneaker 👟 or the latest smartphone 📱—that you knew you'd have to empty your wallet a bit? This expression is perfect for those moments when you consciously choose to spend a lot because you value the quality, brand, or exclusivity! Sometimes, it's just the going rate for something truly special. ✨
💡 **Pro Tip!** 'To pay top dollar' implies you're paying a high price, often willingly, for something of high quality, desirability, or because it's simply expensive! It's different from being 'ripped off' (which is paying too much unfairly) because it suggests a conscious decision for value. So, you might complain about the price, but you usually don't regret the purchase itself! 😉
When would you most likely say, "I had to pay top dollar for it"? A. When you bought a brand-new, high-end laptop for $2,500. B. When you found a great jacket for $5 at a thrift store. C. When you got a free sample of a new snack at the grocery store.