Context #1
Friends making a decision about where to take a trip
Natalie: I was thinking about the restaurants we should visit while in San Francisco. I have so many I want to go to. What about you?
Friends making a decision about where to take a trip
Natalie: I was thinking about the restaurants we should visit while in San Francisco. I have so many I want to go to. What about you?
Robert: I don’t know what to say. Whatever is fine.
Natalie: Hey, we’re doing this together right? A penny for your thoughts, Rob.
Robert: Well, I heard they have good sushi there. I guess the sushi shop by the Ferry Building would be great.
Natalie: See, that wasn’t so painful, was it? Your opinion counts.


Context #2
Teachers discussing next year’s school events
Tom: What do you think about taking students to the Ramen Festival in February?
Teachers discussing next year’s school events
Tom: What do you think about taking students to the Ramen Festival in February?
Karley: I’m not from L.A., so please don’t ask. I really don’t know any place around here.
Tom: Oh, come on! I’m sure you’ve considered, at least, a place you want to visit. A penny for your thoughts, Karley.
Karley: Fine! I was thinking about this really nice restaurant in downtown with a great view of the city. Maybe after, we can all go to a museum.
Meaning: A penny for your thoughts is a comment you make when you want someone else’s opinion. Perhaps the person doesn’t want to contribute to ideas or is simply shy. It’s a way to motivate someone to participate. In both examples, the characters have to say it for their friend’s opinion to be expressed.
LSI Team
For over 30 years, Language Systems International has been offering comprehensive exchange experiences, providing high-quality English instruction with a focus on a communicative and student-centered environment. Follow our blog to stay updated on our activities and latest news.
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