at a premium

Idioms  

1. At a higher price than usual owing to scarcity; also, considered more valuable, held in high esteem. For example, Since that article came out, the firm's stock has been selling at a premium and Space is at a premium in most stores. This idiom uses premium in the sense of “bounty” or “bonus.” [Mid-1800s] Also see put a premium on.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

at a premium

Corporate bonds are priced at a premium, or spread, to the relevant risk-free Treasury rate, the 10-year yield.

From MarketWatch ● Nov. 3, 2026

This is postseason baseball, where the best pitchers take center stage and runs are at a premium.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 12, 2026

A bond trading at a premium to par will have a current yield below the coupon.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 10, 2026

Traders and merchants have been sending large volumes of refined copper into the U.S., where prices have traded at a premium amid the prospect of new import duties.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 8, 2026

Space inside the pressure vessels is at a premium.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

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Related Words

• costly
• extravagant
• fancy
• high
• lavish
• overpriced
• pricey
• upscale
• valuable

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