The phrase "six of half a dozen of other" is a common idiom meaning that two choices are essentially the same. However, its spelling can be confusing due to its colloquial nature. The "six of" and "a dozen of" are spelled as expected, but "half" is pronounced as /hæf/ instead of /hɑf/ due to the following vowel sound. Additionally, "of other" is often pronounced as /əv ˈʌðər/ or even simply /əv ˈðər/ in quick speech, further complicating the spelling.
The phrase "six of half a dozen of other" is an idiomatic expression used to convey that two options or choices being compared or discussed are essentially the same or equivalent in terms of outcomes or consequences. It suggests that despite there being a slight difference in the appearance or description, the end result or overall impact remains unchanged.
The origin of this phrase lies in the comparison of two equal quantities, six and half a dozen (which is also equivalent to six). It is often used when someone is presented with two alternatives or possibilities that seem distinct, but upon closer examination, they are found to be indistinguishable from one another.
The phrase signifies that the difference between the two options is inconsequential, as the outcome or result would remain identical regardless of the choice made. It implies that the selection of one option over the other has little or no real significance and will ultimately lead to the same result.
For example, if asked whether to take an extra hour to complete a project or to postpone it by an hour, one might respond by saying, "It's six of half a dozen of other," meaning that both choices are essentially the same in terms of the final outcome or impact.