Pay through the nose
/peɪ θruː ðə nəʊz/informalUK · US
What does “Pay through the nose” mean?
Pay through the nose means to pay much more than something should cost
Buying a phone charger at the airport might mean paying through the nose. You need it immediately and have little choice about the price.
It is a complaint about cost, not proof that the seller cheated you. Something can be legally priced and still feel far too expensive.
When do people say it?
Use it to complain about an excessive price. Usually followed by “for” and the thing you bought.
“We paid through the nose for a tiny room near the station.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The nose makes this a striking image of painful payment. The wording alone does not explain how the expression began.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Pay through the nose” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Cost an arm and a leg, To be very expensive.
Last updated 2026-10-01