Cost-effective

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Cost-effective" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the efficiency of a solution or product in terms of its cost relative to its benefits. Example: "The new marketing strategy proved to be cost-effective, resulting in higher sales without increasing our budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Cost-effective solutions.

The Guardian

Recommended cost-effective energy modifications.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They are extraordinarily cost-effective.

The New York Times

It is very cost-effective".

Independent

Bluetooth is very cost-effective".

The New York Times - Tech

And they are cost-effective.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

This can be cost effective".

The New York Times

"It's very cost effective".

The New York Times

It is more cost effective.

The New York Times

They're also more cost effective.

The Guardian

Sometimes, leasing is cost effective.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the term "cost-effective", ensure you can quantify the benefits or savings achieved in relation to the investment made. This strengthens your argument and adds credibility.

Common error

Avoid claiming something is "cost-effective" without demonstrating how it saves money or resources in the long run. Vague claims can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cost-effective" primarily functions as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something that provides good value or savings relative to its cost. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples demonstrating its descriptive capacity in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cost-effective" is a widely used and grammatically correct adjective that describes something as providing good value for the money spent. According to Ludwig AI, it is common in various contexts including News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. When writing, it is crucial to quantify the savings or benefits to support a claim of cost-effectiveness. Alternatives such as "economical", "budget-friendly", and "value for money" can be used depending on the specific nuance required. Remember, stating something is "cost-effective" without evidence is a common mistake that can undermine your argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Cost-efficient

A very close synonym, but places slightly more emphasis on the efficiency aspect.

Value for money

Highlights the balance between price and quality or usefulness.

Economical

Focuses more directly on saving money or resources.

Reasonably priced

Suggests a fair price relative to the perceived value.

Worth the investment

Emphasizes the return on investment and long-term benefits.

Budget-friendly

Suggests affordability for individuals or smaller entities.

Economically viable

Focuses on the financial sustainability and feasibility of a project or venture.

Affordable

Focuses on the ability to purchase something without financial strain.

Efficient

Emphasizes the effective use of resources without necessarily implying low cost.

Low-cost

Primarily emphasizes the low price, potentially at the expense of other factors.

FAQs

How can I use "cost-effective" in a sentence?

You can use "cost-effective" to describe a solution or product that provides good value for the money spent. For example, "The new marketing strategy proved to be "cost-effective", resulting in higher sales without increasing our budget."

What is a good alternative to saying "cost-effective"?

Alternatives to "cost-effective" include "economical", "budget-friendly", or "cost-efficient", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "cost-effective" or "effective"?

"Effective" simply means achieving a desired result. "Cost-effective" means achieving a desired result while also being economical and providing good value for the investment. The choice depends on whether the cost factor is relevant to the discussion.

What's the difference between "cost-effective" and "efficient"?

"Efficient" refers to using resources well to achieve a result. "Cost-effective" specifically refers to achieving a good outcome relative to the cost involved. Something can be efficient without being cost-effective if the cost is too high for the benefits.