"More penny ante" is an idiomatic expression used to describe an activity, situation, or behavior that is considered trivial, insignificant, or of little value. The phrase is formed by combining the words "more," indicating an increased quantity or degree, and "penny ante," which is a gambling term referring to a game with low stakes or small amounts of money involved.
In a figurative sense, when something is described as "more penny ante," it implies that it is even more inconsequential or trivial than what is already perceived as such. The term can be used to express a dismissive or belittling attitude towards an action or an individual who is engaged in unimportant or superficial matters.
The phrase originated from the world of gambling, particularly card games, where "penny ante" describes a game with minimal bets. In such games, participants wager very small amounts of money, often just a few pennies. The low stakes of these games suggest that they lack the seriousness and intensity associated with higher-stakes gambling activities.
Over time, the term "penny ante" has evolved beyond its original gambling context to describe any endeavor or situation that is trivial or unimportant. The addition of "more" to the phrase emphasizes a heightened level of insignificance. Thus, when something is deemed "more penny ante," it suggests an even greater degree of triviality or lack of importance.
