Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.
17th August 2024

Six of one and half a dozen of the other

We use this expression to say that we have two choices and neither choices is better than the other choice.
IH Bristol Phrase of the Day: Six of one and half a dozen of the other
Usage
Written: 
Yes
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
Do you think it's better to drive to London or take the train?
It's six of one and half a dozen of the other. Driving is more convenient but if we take the train we won't have to worry about traffic.
Example 2
Do you really want to go to Spain again next summer holiday?
Personally, I'd rather stay in the UK with the food that I like and people who speak my language.
I guess it's six of one and half a dozen of the other. Going abroad is expensive but it's the only way you can be sure of getting nice weather.

Find an Online English Course