Initial charge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Initial charge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the first amount of energy or power supplied to a device, often in contexts related to electronics or batteries. Example: "Before using the device, ensure that the initial charge is sufficient to power it on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Three years after Dr. Schwartz's initial charge, it declined to join her false-claims litigation.

The New York Times

Some funds may have an initial charge which you pay direct from your investment.

The Guardian - Money

There is an initial charge of £350 and annual fees of £400, but no transaction charges.

The Guardian - Money

After midnight, rates rise to an initial charge of 2.75 liras and 3.5 liras per kilometer.

The New York Times - Travel

Never pay an initial charge unless you are receiving a full advice service.

The Guardian - Money

But their initial charge was essentially to create New Deal propaganda.

The New York Times - Arts

Will allow lower initial charge, v high speed trip & long detours, like NYTimes drive.

The New York Times

So has Mr. Paul's initial charge that President Barack Obama's criticism of BP was "anti-American".

The New York Times

Mr Gutsche's overage, it should be noted, was nearly 40 times larger than his initial charge.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The polymer is rechargeable and returns to its initial charge-discharge cycle capacity.

Electrochimica Acta

The data show that the initial charge-carrying species are polarons.

Electrochimica Acta

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing financial investments, use "Initial charge" to refer to the upfront fee paid when purchasing a fund or investment product. This clarifies the immediate cost involved.

Common error

Avoid using "Initial charge" when referring to recurring or annual fees. "Initial charge" specifically denotes a one-time, upfront payment, whereas ongoing fees are separate and should be described accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Initial charge" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject or object in a sentence, denoting the first or upfront cost associated with a product, service, or investment. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is widely used and understood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Initial charge" is a commonly used noun phrase referring to the upfront or starting cost of a service, product, or investment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely understood across various contexts. It functions to inform or clarify immediate expenses, particularly in areas like finance, technology, and services. While its register is neutral, it's most frequently found in "News & Media", "Science", and "Formal & Business" contexts. When using the phrase, it's essential to differentiate it from ongoing fees and to consider alternatives like "Starting fee" or "Setup fee" depending on the specific context. Key authoritative sources that frequently employ this term include The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Starting fee

Focuses on the cost aspect, similar to initial charge but emphasizes the monetary amount.

Initial cost

Highlights the expense associated with the beginning of a service or product usage.

First payment

Emphasizes the act of paying at the beginning, typically in installments.

Setup fee

Implies a one-time charge for setting up a service or account.

Opening balance

Refers to the starting amount, often used in financial contexts.

Upfront payment

Stresses that the payment is required at the beginning of a transaction.

Entry fee

Suggests a charge to gain access or entry to something.

Commencement fee

A more formal term for a fee associated with starting something.

Start-up cost

Highlights the expenses involved in initiating a project or venture.

Base rate

Refers to the fundamental charge before any additional fees or taxes.

FAQs

What does "Initial charge" mean in a financial context?

In finance, "Initial charge" refers to a one-time fee paid upfront when investing in a fund or other financial product. It's different from ongoing management fees or transaction costs.

How can I avoid paying an "Initial charge"?

Some investment platforms offer funds with no "Initial charge". Look for funds or accounts that advertise 'no-load' options or consider fee-only financial advisors who don't receive commissions from fund sales.

What's the difference between "Initial charge" and "annual fee"?

The "Initial charge" is a one-time payment made at the start of an investment or service, while an "annual fee" is a recurring charge paid each year to maintain the account or service.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "Initial charge"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "Starting fee", "setup fee", or "upfront payment" to convey a similar meaning.