(nineteen|ten) to the dozen
1
in a rapid and nonstop way
The idiom "to the dozen" means at a rate or in a quantity of twelve. The number twelve has historically been used as a standard measure in various contexts, such as dozens of eggs or dozens of items. When "nineteen" or "ten" is added before it, it emphasizes a quantity far exceeding the standard dozen, suggesting an exceptionally high or rapid rate or quantity. This expression is used to describe a situation where something is happening at a very rapid or high rate, often implying that it is difficult to keep up with or control.
- She talks nineteen to the dozen; you can hardly get a word in.
- During the holiday shopping season, customers were buying gifts ten to the dozen.
- The factory workers were producing widgets nineteen to the dozen to meet the demand.
- In the heat of the argument, they were shouting insults ten to the dozen.
- The children were running around and playing nineteen to the dozen in the park.