Expensive

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

IPA: /ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/

Definitions

• Adjective: High in cost; requiring a large amount of money to purchase, acquire, or maintain.
• Adjective: Imposing a financial burden due to high cost.
• Adjective: Describing an item or service with a price higher than what is considered affordable or reasonable.

Usage Examples

• The designer handbag was too expensive for most people to afford.
• Expensive restaurant meals are often out of reach for students.
• They decided not to buy the expensive car because it was beyond their budget.

Etymology

The word "expensive" comes from the Latin "expensivus," meaning "costly" or "requiring expenditure," derived from "expens-" (the stem of "expensum," meaning expenditure). It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe something costly in terms of money or resources.

Synonyms

• Costly
• High-priced
• Pricey
• Exorbitant
• Overpriced
• Lavish

Antonyms

• Cheap
• Affordable
• Inexpensive
• Reasonable
• Low-cost
• Budget-friendly

Translations

Major Global Languages

Indian Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the word is typically pronounced with a strong emphasis on the second syllable: /ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is similar but may vary slightly in tone and stress patterns: /ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/.

Historical Usage

The term "expensive" has been in use since the late 15th century. It initially referred to something involving considerable expenditure, especially in trade and commerce. Over time, the word expanded to include not only financial cost but also anything requiring significant resources, including time and effort.

Cultural Nuances

In various cultures, the concept of what is "expensive" can be relative. What may be considered expensive in one country may be viewed as affordable in another. For example, luxury goods in Western markets may seem unaffordable in developing nations, while they might be seen as a status symbol in other parts of the world.

More Information

The term "expensive" is often used in both personal and business contexts to refer to the cost of goods or services that exceed what is considered typical or affordable. The rise of online shopping and global markets has expanded the range of what can be considered expensive, with many luxury brands becoming internationally recognized. Understanding the costliness of an item is essential for consumers and businesses alike to manage resources effectively and make informed financial decisions.