Cost

Definition

Cost refers to the amount or expense required to obtain, produce, or maintain something. It can also imply a loss or sacrifice incurred to achieve an objective.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɔst/
• Respelling: kost

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɒst/
• Respelling: kost

Etymology

The word "cost" originates from the Latin "constare," meaning "to stand firm or to have a fixed price." It evolved in Middle English to signify the price or expenditure associated with obtaining something.

Derivatives

• Costly (adjective)
• Costing (noun/verb)
• Costless (adjective)
• Costliness (noun)
• Low-cost (adjective)

Synonyms

• Expense
• Price
• Charge

Antonyms

• Free
• Benefit
• Gain

Usage

The term "cost" is commonly used to describe the financial expenditure or sacrifice needed to acquire something. For example, "The cost of living has increased significantly in recent years." It can also refer to the consequences or sacrifices made to achieve a result.

Related Terms

• Expense: The amount of money spent on something.
• Fee: A fixed charge for a service.
• Price: The amount of money expected in exchange for an item.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The amount paid or required to purchase something: Refers to the financial outlay needed for an item or service.
  • Example: "The cost of the car was higher than expected."
• The price paid in terms of loss or sacrifice: Describes the non-monetary sacrifices associated with achieving something.
  • Example: "He achieved his goals, but at a great personal cost."

Verb

• To require payment, effort, or sacrifice: Indicates that something has a price or demands a particular expenditure.
  • Example: "The project will cost more than initially budgeted."
• To cause loss or suffering: Refers to the consequences or drawbacks incurred as a result of an action or decision.
  • Example: "His mistake cost him his job."