Search from various English teachers...
Maxim
In English, is there an expression "devil's dozen", meaning 'thirteen objects'? I think it exists, although I failed to find it both Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries. Besides, is it even widely used?
Feb 20, 2023 2:17 PM
Answers · 9
1
I have never heard "a devil's dozen." I've never read it in a book.
I have heard "a baker's dozen" for thirteen, and, in fact, some bagel bakeries actually give you thirteen bagels if you buy "a dozen."
February 21, 2023
13 of something is a "baker's dozen." And no, it's not that widely used.
February 20, 2023
It comes from a practice that was once common, at least in small towns, that a merchant would give you something extra as a thank you for your business. A baker might give you and extra roll when you bought a dozen, or an extra cookie. The store clerk might give an extra piece of candy. I heard it only occasionally as a boy, but almost never now.
February 20, 2023
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Maxim
Language Skills
English, French, Russian
Learning Language
English, French
Articles You May Also Like

Same Word, Different Meaning: American, British, and South African English
21 likes · 17 Comments

How to Sound Confident in English (Even When You’re Nervous)
16 likes · 12 Comments

Marketing Vocabulary and Phrases for Business English Learners
13 likes · 6 Comments
More articles
