"Electricity and water expenses" vs "Electricity and water expense"

Question

"Electricity and water expenses" vs "Electricity and water expense"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Electricity and water expense' is used when referring to a single combined expense for both electricity and water, while 'electricity and water expenses' is used when referring to separate expenses for electricity and water.

Last Updated: April 02, 2024

This phrase is used when talking about individual expenses for electricity and water, such as when listing out different costs.

Examples:

The electricity and water expenses were included in the monthly budget.
We need to analyze the electricity and water expenses to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Alternatives:

separate electricity and water expenses
electricity and water costs

This phrase is used when talking about a single expense that covers both electricity and water, such as in a budget or financial report.

Examples:

The electricity and water expense for the month was higher than expected.
We need to track the electricity and water expense separately for accounting purposes.

Alternatives:

combined electricity and water expense
electricity and water cost

Answer 1

Electricity and water expenses

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to separate expenses for electricity and water.

Answer 2

Electricity and water expense

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a single combined expense for both electricity and water.