🤯 Sticker Shock
Definition: Surprise at the high cost of an item. The term originated in the 1970s when government regulations substantially increased the cost of automobiles. It was soon transferred to any item or service regarded as unusually expensive. For example, “I had a case of sticker shock when I learned the annual cost of club membership exceeded $1,000.”
Related and Similar Terms:
- 💰 Pricey surprise
- 💸 Wallet whiplash
- 💵 Costly astonishment
- 🏷️ Price tag panic
- 💸 Expense explosion
Proverbs: “Money talks, but all mine ever says is ‘goodbye.’” - Witty Witmore
“Cheap things are not good; good things are not cheap.” - Budget Bala Cynwyd
Synonyms:
- Cost-overruns
- Price bewilderment
- Expense amazement
Antonyms:
- Bargain bliss
- Discount delight
- Expense ease
Humor-Filled Quotes: “Sticker shock is like a surprise party you never wanted—the guest list includes your empty wallet.” - Penny Pincher Parker
“It’s not the money you save that counts; it’s the sticker shock that almost gave you a heart attack.” - Billie Budget
Literature and Media References:
- The Pajama Game (Book by Richard Bissell) - The musical deals with laborers striving for fair wages, introducing the price battles people face.
- The Price is Right (Game Show) - Contestants face the ultimate test of sticker shock in a fun, competitive format.
- Songs:
- “Money, Money, Money” by ABBA
- “If I Had $1,000,000” by Barenaked Ladies
- “Price Tag” by Jessie J
Inspirational Thought: “Being aware of sticker shock means you’re on a path to smarter spending. Just as with anything in life, the greatest currency is knowledge.”
