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it was costing vs it has cost

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'It was costing' is used to talk about the past continuous cost of something, while 'it has cost' is used to talk about the completed cost of something up to the present moment.

Last updated: March 28, 2024

it was costing

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about the past continuous cost of something.

Use 'it was costing' when you want to refer to the ongoing cost of something in the past. It indicates that the cost was in progress at a specific point or period in the past.

Examples:

  • It was costing us a lot of money to maintain the old car.
  • The repairs were costing more than we had anticipated.

Alternatives:

  • it used to cost
  • it was expensive
  • it was causing
  • it was taking
  • it was consuming

it has cost

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about the completed cost of something up to the present moment.

Use 'it has cost' when you want to refer to the total cost of something up to the present moment. It indicates that the cost has been incurred and is relevant to the current situation.

Examples:

  • It has cost us a fortune to renovate the house.
  • The delays have cost the company valuable time and resources.

Alternatives:

  • it has been expensive
  • it has resulted in a cost
  • it has led to an expense
  • it has caused a financial burden
  • it has taken a toll

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