A1noun1K

Cost

UK /["/kɒst/"]/US /["/kɔːst/"]/

Definition

the amount of money that you need in order to buy, make or do something

In simple words: The amount of money needed to buy something.

Examples

  • The cost of the new car is very high.
  • You need to consider the cost before making a decision.
  • The cost of living has increased in many cities.
  • He didn't realize the cost was so much until he saw the bill.
  • When planning a project, it's important to keep the cost in mind.
  • The cost of the concert tickets was worth it because the show was amazing.

Usage notes

Use 'cost' to describe the price of goods or services. It’s appropriate in both spoken and written language, but avoid using it in very formal contexts where more specific terms might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

cost + object + amount

Memory hint

Think of 'cost' like counting coins; it’s all about money.

Collocations

  • considerable
  • high
  • enormous
  • carry
  • have
  • bear
  • escalate
  • go up
  • increase
  • reduction
  • savings
  • increase
  • at a cost of
  • cost to
  • an increase in cost
  • a reduction in cost
  • at great cost
  • considerable
  • enormous
  • great
  • incur
  • pay
  • increase
  • be associated
  • be involved
  • escalate
  • considerable
  • enormous
  • great
  • outweigh
  • suffer
  • count
  • at cost (to)
  • at a cost (to)
  • at the cost of
  • costs and benefits
  • at all costs
  • at any cost
  • court
  • legal
  • administrative
  • incur
  • pay
  • be awarded

Synonyms

  • price
  • expense
  • charge
  • fee
  • valuation

Antonyms

  • free
  • no cost

Common mistakes

  • Using 'cost' in past tense improperly, like 'costed'.
  • Confusing 'cost' with 'price' in terms of usage.
  • Omitting the amount, e.g., saying 'This costs...' without stating the price.