How to Pronounce "highway robbery"
expression
ˈhaɪˌweɪ/ /ˈɹɑbɝi
HYE-way RAH-ber-ee
hˈaɪweɪ/ /ɹˈɒbəɹi
HYE-way ROB-uh-ree
Definition
Originally meaning a robbery that happens on a road or highway, this phrase is now mostly used to talk about prices or charges that are extremely high or unfair, as if someone is stealing from you.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈhaɪˌweɪ/ /ˈɹɑbɝi
British English
hˈaɪweɪ/ /ɹˈɒbəɹi
Simplified Pronunciation
US
HYE-way RAH-ber-ee
UK
HYE-way ROB-uh-ree
Listen in Context
The price for water at the airport is highway robbery.
Paying $50 for a simple meal is highway robbery.
The service fee was highway robbery.
I can’t believe they charged that much for parking—seriously, that’s highway robbery!