on a dime

phrase

Synonyms of on a dimenext
1
: in a very small area
These cars can turn on a dime.
2
: instantly
The cars can stop on a dime.

Examples of on a dime in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Trump frequently changes course on a dime and as all the elements for the Ulchi Freedom drills are in place, scaling them back may not amount to much on the ground. Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 17 Aug. 2026 But then everything changed on a dime, and a manic Cubs season went off the rails again. Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026 Because work trips can change on a dime, a restrictive ticket in business class can cost a company even more if travelers have to buy a whole new flight. Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 7 Aug. 2026 Things could change on a dime, so don’t get caught up in expectations! Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026

Cite this Entry

“On a dime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20a%20dime. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

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