The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs (179 page)

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FAR-FETCHED and dear-bought is good for ladies
Expensive or exotic articles are suitable for women.
c
1350
Douce MS
52 no. 7
Ferre ifet and dere i-bowght is goode for ladys.
1583
Philotimus
18
Pallas .. is .. hard to be found, but easy to be intreated, to be farre fetchte & deare boughte, but that we say is good for Ladies.
1616
Epicœne
V. 163
When his cates [delicacies] are all in brought, Though there be none far fet, there will dear-bought, Be fit for ladies.
1738
Polite Conversation
I. 60
But you know, farfetch'd and dear-bought is fit for Ladies. I warrant, this cost your Father Two pence half-penny.
1876
Manchester Man
III. x.
‘Where did these beautiful things come from?’..‘India .. They are “far-fetched and dear-bought”, and so must be good for you, my lady.’
novelty
;
taste

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