–Not have a penny to one’s name | Image by www.gwigwi.com
Context
The Week JuniorFans of the classic Roald Dahl book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are about to be treated to a new story about its legendary inventor and candy maker, Willy Wonka. The movie musical Wonka, which arrives in theaters on December 15, is about Wonka at the start of his career. Wonka is completely original, and director and co-writer Paul King set out to show Wonka before he became the mysterious man depicted in the past films. King said he imagined Wonka “didn’t have a penny to his name, but had a dream of a brighter tomorrow.”
Explanations and Usages
The phrase “not have a penny to one’s name” is an idiomatic expression used to indicate that someone is extremely poor or has no money at all. In simple academic language, this phrase can be understood as a figurative way of saying that an individual does not possess even the smallest amount of currency (a penny) that they can claim as their own. The use of “name” in the phrase emphasizes personal ownership or possession, suggesting that the individual lacks any financial resources or assets.
The phrase is often used to describe a person’s financial status or to highlight the severity of their poverty. For example, in literature, a character described as “not having a penny to his name” would be understood as being in a state of destitution or financial hardship. In academic discussions or writings, the phrase might be employed to illustrate economic concepts, social inequality, or the impacts of financial crises on individuals.
Examples
Many students pursue higher education with ambitions and dreams, despite not having a penny to their name, relying on scholarships, grants, and part-time jobs to finance their journey towards acquiring knowledge and opening doors to future opportunities.
–Education
In the volatile world of startups, it’s not uncommon for entrepreneurs to embark on their ventures not having a penny to their name, relying solely on their innovative ideas, relentless determination, and the hope of securing investment to transform their vision into a successful business reality.
–Business
- Despite his role as CEO of Innovatech, Alex confessed that there was a time when he did not have a penny to his name, highlighting the unpredictability of success in the tech industry.
–Technology
- Dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of the universe, some of the most influential scientists began their journeys in humble circumstances, not having a penny to their name, yet their unwavering commitment led to discoveries that have fundamentally reshaped our understanding of science and its applications in the modern world.
–Science
- J.K. Rowling, the celebrated author of the “Harry Potter” series, once faced dire financial difficulties, during which she did not have a penny to her name. This period of her life underscores the stark contrast between her early struggles and her later triumphs in the literary industry.
–Arts and Culture
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