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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
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