"expensive" vs "high cost"

Question

"expensive" vs "high cost"

Both 'high cost' and 'expensive' are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. 'High cost' is a noun phrase that refers to the amount of money needed to purchase something, while 'expensive' is an adjective that describes something as costing a lot of money.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

Use 'expensive' when you want to describe something as costing a lot of money. It is an adjective.

Examples:

That designer handbag is too expensive for me.
Eating out every day can be very expensive.

Alternatives:

costly
pricey
high-priced
premium
overpriced

Use 'high cost' when you want to refer to the amount of money needed to purchase something. It is a noun phrase.

Examples:

The high cost of living in the city is a challenge for many residents.
The high cost of healthcare is a major concern for the government.

Alternatives:

steep price
expensive cost
hefty expense
significant expenditure
substantial outlay

Answer 1

expensive

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

high cost

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"expensive" vs "high cost"

expensive

high cost

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