ChanteSez … I could use a million bucks!

I don’t know about you, but I could use a million bucks. Now here’s a question: Is there a difference between a million bucks and $1 million?

If you’re thinking that one is wild game, I guess you’re technically correct.

But I’m thinking more in terms of colloquialisms such as “bucks” and “ducats” vs. dollar-dollar bills.

When you’re referring to actual, countable dollar amounts, use the dollar symbol ($). Another tip: Don’t double up on the dollars. There’s no need to repeat “dollars” if you’re using the dollar sign. (Wrong: I could use $1 million dollars.)

If you’re generalizing or making grand statements, drop the dollar sign and use whatever slang term you want.

Here are a few examples:

The foundation raised more than $1.5 million as a direct result of her leadership.

“This deficit situation is beyond my imagination. I can’t even think of what a billion trillion dollars looks like.”

The price for a new Porsche Panamera ranges from $78,100 and $161,100 depending on the features.

Now let’s go make millions!