PhrasesHub

Blue-plate special

    Definitions

      • Offering a high-quality, special item or service at a discounted or reduced price, typically for a limited time or in a specific location
        Used in a business or marketing context to attract customers and increase sales by creating a sense of urgency and exclusivity

      • Describing a person or thing that is highly desirable or valuable
        Used in casual conversation to compliment or praise someone or something, often in a playful or lighthearted manner

    Examples of Blue-plate special

    • The diner on the corner offers a blue-plate special every weekday afternoon. These discounted lunchtime meals include a generous serving of homemade chicken noodle soup, a hearty sandwich, and a side of freshly baked biscuits. This promotion is especially popular with local office workers looking for a filling and affordable midday meal.

      The term "Blue-plate special" originated in the 1930s when diners offered inexpensive, pre-set meals as a way to lure customers during the Great Depression. The meals were typically served on blue-patterned plates, hence the name. In this example, the blue-plate special is being used to describe a specific promotional offering at the diner. The promotion includes multiple courses, making it a great value for customers. The popularity of the special amongst local office workers highlights the fact that the promotional offering is well-known and enjoyed by the community.

    • In an effort to reduce food waste, the grocery store has started a "Blue-plate special" program on weekends. The store marks down fresh produce and other perishables that are nearing their expiration date by 50% or more. The program has been a huge success and has helped the store reduce waste and increase sales during traditionally slower weekends.

      In this example, the blue-plate special is being used to describe a promotional offering at a grocery store that focuses on reducing food waste. The promotion offers discounted products that are approaching their expiration date. This usage of the blue-plate special is creative because it is being applied to a retail setting instead of a traditional dining establishment. The success of the program highlights the fact that offering promotional discounts can be effective in reducing waste and increasing sales, regardless of the industry.

    • The small-town diner has become famous for its blue-plate specials that feature locally sourced ingredients. The promotional meals are a hit with tourists and locals alike, who appreciate the farm-to-table approach and the affordable prices. The popularity of the blue-plate specials has helped the diner develop a loyal customer base and become a fixture in the community.

      This example uses the blue-plate special to describe a promotional offering at a diner that focuses on locally sourced ingredients. The promotional meals offer a farm-to-table dining experience that is unique and affordable. The popularity of the blue-plate specials highlights the diner's commitment to sourcing locally and using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The success of the promotional meals has helped the diner establish a loyal customer base and become a well-known landmark in the community.

    • The small diner down the road has a blue-plate special every Tuesday, which is a delicious meatloaf dinner for a steal of a price. Make sure to go early as it tends to sell out fast!

      In this example, "blue-plate special" is being used in the sense of a special deal or discounted meal option offered by the diner on Tuesdays. The meatloaf dinner being offered is particularly popular and sells out quickly, making it a good idea to arrive early to ensure you get to enjoy this blue-plate special.

    • The local restaurant is well known for its blue-plate specials, which are always hearty and savory. If you're looking for a good value meal, be sure to check out their menu for the daily special.

      In this example, "blue-plate specials" refers to the discounted or special menu options offered by the restaurant each day. These meal deals are known for being both filling and delicious, making them a popular choice among regulars and first-time visitors alike.

    • The cafeteria at the hospital has a blue-plate special for lunch every day, which includes a sandwich, side dish, and drink for under ten dollars. This affordable meal option is a lifesaver for hospital staff and visitors who need to refuel on a budget.

      Here, "blue-plate special" is being used to describe a discounted meal offered by the hospital cafeteria. This meal deal includes a sandwich, side dish, and drink at a budget-friendly price, making it a great option for those who need to keep their expenses low.

    • I heard that the new diner down the street has a blue-plate special called "Meatlovers Delight" that has been getting rave reviews. I'm definitely adding that to my list of places to try!

      In this last example, "blue-plate special" is being used in reference to a specific meal option at a new diner. The "Meatlovers Delight" blue-plate special is reportedly very popular and well-regarded, making it a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, filling meal.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "blue-plate special" has two main meanings, both of which involve offering something of high quality or value. The first meaning is typically used in a business or marketing context, where a special item or service is offered at a discounted price to attract customers and increase sales. This can create a sense of urgency and exclusivity, as the offer is usually only available for a limited time or in a specific location.

    The second meaning is more informal and is often used in casual conversation to describe a person or thing that is highly desirable or valuable. This usage is usually meant as a compliment or praise, and is often used in a playful or lighthearted manner.

    Origin of "Blue-plate special"

    The origin of the idiom "blue-plate special" can be traced back to the early 1900s in America. During this time, many restaurants and diners would offer daily specials on their menus, often served on a blue plate. This was a way to entice customers and offer a higher quality or unique dish at a discounted price.

    Over time, the term "blue-plate special" became synonymous with these discounted and high-quality meals, and eventually evolved to also include other types of specials or offers. Today, the idiom is still commonly used in the restaurant industry, but has also expanded to be used in other contexts such as sales and marketing.