a relatively low cost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a relatively low cost" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the affordability or expense of a product, service, or project in comparison to others. Example: "The new software solution offers a range of features at a relatively low cost, making it accessible for small businesses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

They are doing that at a relatively low cost.

The New York Times

These are steps that could be carried out immediately and at a relatively low cost.

The New York Times

In Western Europe, Germany stands out as having a relatively low cost of living.

Nature

The company's centralized, standardized IT environment allows for dependable customer service at a relatively low cost.

Harvard Business Review

For many school districts awaiting new structures, portables ease crowding quickly at a relatively low cost.

The Washington Post

Israeli officials are nonetheless hopeful that a regional initiative could yield benefits at a relatively low cost.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Indian Point is a relatively low-cost supplier.

The New York Times

"Artwork is a relatively low-cost way to make a big impact," he said.

The New York Times

However, it could prove a relatively low-cost addition to our core malaria interventions.

The Guardian

Rid of them, the company could re-emerge in administration as a relatively low-cost producer.

The Economist

Even "Taken," a relatively low-cost thriller starring Liam Neeson, is barreling past the $100 million mark this weekend.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing options, use "a relatively low cost" to highlight that one is more affordable than the others, implying a benefit without explicitly stating it's the cheapest.

Common error

Avoid using "a relatively low cost" when the cost is actually high. "Relatively" implies a comparison, so ensure the cost is low in relation to other options or a specific benchmark.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a relatively low cost" functions as a noun phrase acting as an adjective, modifying another noun. This usage is supported by Ludwig AI, which finds the phrase grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a relatively low cost" is a versatile expression used to convey affordability in comparison to other options. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Analysis of Ludwig's examples shows that it's most frequently used in News & Media and Science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the cost is genuinely low in relation to alternatives, and consider alternatives like "an affordable price" or "a cost-effective solution" to tailor your message for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comparably low cost

Replaces "relatively" with "comparably", indicating a similar degree of lowness in cost.

a fairly low cost

Uses "fairly" instead of "relatively", suggesting a reasonable or moderate cost.

an affordable price

Replaces "cost" with "price" and describes it as "affordable", emphasizing the ease of purchase.

a budget-friendly option

Frames the subject as an "option" that is "budget-friendly", stressing its suitability for those with limited funds.

a cost-effective solution

Highlights the "solution's" efficiency in relation to its "cost".

an economical choice

Focuses on the "choice" being "economical", which implies good value for money and efficient use of resources.

a competitively priced alternative

Highlights that the "alternative" is "competitively priced", meaning it is priced well compared to similar options.

a value-for-money deal

Emphasizes that the "deal" offers good "value for money", implying that you get a lot for what you pay.

a modest expenditure

Replaces "cost" with "expenditure" and describes it as "modest", suggesting a small or reasonable amount of spending.

an inexpensive option

Describes something as an "option" which is "inexpensive", highlighting its low price.

FAQs

How can I use "a relatively low cost" in a sentence?

You can use "a relatively low cost" to describe something that is more affordable compared to other options. For example, "The new marketing strategy proved to be effective at "a relatively low cost"."

What are some alternatives to saying "a relatively low cost"?

Alternatives include "an affordable price", "a budget-friendly option", or "a cost-effective solution", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "a relatively low cost"?

It's best to use "a relatively low cost" when you're making a comparison. If there is no basis for comparison, it might be more accurate to say "a low cost".

What's the difference between "a relatively low cost" and "a cheap alternative"?

"A relatively low cost" suggests affordability in comparison to other options, whereas "a cheap alternative" may imply lower quality. The former is generally more neutral and professional.