a higher toll

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a higher toll" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an increased cost, fee, or burden associated with something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The new regulations will impose a higher toll on small businesses, making it harder for them to survive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Everyone expects a higher toll in Haiti.

The New York Times

The Syrian Network for Human Rights had a higher toll than the VDC, but similar ratios.

The Guardian

Only one other mass shooting, the Virginia Tech massacre on April 16, 2007, has taken a higher toll.

The New York Times

Then Blackwater guards responded with a barrage of gunfire and explosive weapons, leaving 17 dead and 24 wounded — a higher toll than previously thought, according to Iraqi investigators.

The New York Times

One of the dead, the official said, was a police officer who stopped the bomber's vehicle from entering the city's crowded downtown, possibly preventing a higher toll.

The New York Times

Other studies of individual wind farms suggest a higher toll on bats and birds, who crash into towers, blades, power lines and other installations.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

But the global downturn exacted a high toll.

The New York Times

But eating animals exacts a high toll on the planet.

The Economist

Pakistani officials question this, pointing to a high toll in civilian deaths.

The Economist

Why does it take so long?" Managing these internal conflicts brings a high toll of stress evident in almost all jobs that entail care.

The Guardian

Despite declines in the percentage of smokers, smoking continues to exact a high toll, especially in states that do little to control tobacco use.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a higher toll" when you want to emphasize that the negative consequences or costs associated with something have increased compared to a previous state or alternative. It's suitable for both tangible and intangible burdens.

Common error

Avoid using "a higher toll" in contexts where a literal toll (e.g. on a road) is being discussed. The phrase is generally used metaphorically to indicate an increased negative impact or cost. For literal tolls, specify "a higher fee" or "increased charges".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a higher toll" functions as a comparative expression, indicating an increased cost, burden, or negative impact. It typically modifies a noun, specifying that something exacts a greater price than before, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a higher toll" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves as a comparative expression, denoting an increased negative impact, cost, or burden. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and showcases its frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While it maintains a neutral register, its metaphorical meaning should be carefully considered to avoid misuse. Alternatives such as ""a greater burden"" or ""a heavier cost"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a greater burden

Emphasizes the weight or difficulty imposed.

a heavier cost

Highlights the financial or resource implications.

a steeper price

Similar to "a heavier cost" but can also imply consequences.

a greater impact

Focuses on the extent of the effect or influence.

an increased strain

Suggests pressure or difficulty.

a more severe consequence

Highlights the negative outcome or result.

a larger sacrifice

Emphasizes what must be given up or lost.

a greater demand

Focuses on increased requirements or needs.

a bigger challenge

Highlights the increased difficulty or obstacle.

an elevated risk

Emphasizes increased chances of negative outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "a higher toll" in a sentence?

You can use "a higher toll" to describe an increased cost or negative impact. For example, "The economic crisis took "a high toll" on small businesses, and the new regulations imposed a higher toll.".

What can I say instead of "a higher toll"?

You can use alternatives like "a greater burden", "a heavier cost", or "a steeper price" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a higher toll"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources.

What's the difference between "a high toll" and "a higher toll"?

"A high toll" describes a significant cost or negative impact, whereas "a higher toll" indicates an increase compared to a previous state or alternative. For example, "The war took "a high toll" on the population, and the recent escalation is expected to result in a higher toll".