Commonly applied literally.
The English say, It is as cheap sitting as standing, my Masters.
[1666 G. Torriano Italian Proverbs 277]
Let's get chairs, and be snug; it's as cheap sitting as standing.
[1858 Surtees Ask Mamma xlix.]
He returned to Tommie Redhill's car. ‘Jump in, Inspector,’ Tommie suggested, opening the door at his side. ‘It's as cheap sitting as standing.’
[1932 ‘J. J. Connington’ Sweepstake Murders ix.]
The old man‥grunted angrily and lowered himself into a chair. I had already taken a seat. It was as cheap to sit as to stand.
[1946 ‘R. T. Campbell’ Bodies in Bookshop xix.]
Related to: idleness
Bibliography of major proverb collections and works cited from modern editions is available here.
