an initial cost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial cost" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the first expense incurred in a project, purchase, or investment. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, we need to consider an initial cost for materials and labor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

There is an initial cost though.

The Guardian - Money

(Protected Tomorrows offers an online planning tool for an initial cost of about $130).

The New York Times

"If you're retrofitting a building, it's going to be an initial cost," Mr. Goodwin said.

The New York Times

Instead the former City manager has finally signed Evans for Albion at an initial cost of £6m.

The Guardian - Sport

After deductions, cavity wall insulation could typically save you £135 a year on an initial cost of £250.

Independent

The effect is to erode an initial cost advantage and to ease the burden of adjustment in other countries.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

In addition, we developed a screening approach that allows an initial, cost-effective identification of sites of concern.

Environmental Pollution

We will conduct an initial cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) of incremental cost per gain in outcome, looking at the cost per STI prevented (Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea), comparing intervention participants with controls from the NHS perspective.

BMJ Open

To develop an initial costing framework for IHR implementation, we sought case-study countries that could provide examples of field-tested strategies and practices in the 8 IHR core capacities and at points of entry, along with associated costs.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Whatever its advantages, digital printing comes with a higher initial cost than a low-end Polaroid camera.

The New York Times - Tech

Diesel engine-operated pump is typically characterized by a lower initial cost but a very high operation and maintenance cost.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different options, clearly state the "initial cost" alongside other factors like long-term running costs or benefits.

Common error

Avoid using "initial cost" interchangeably with total project cost. Be clear about whether you are referring to the up-front expense or the overall expenditure over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial cost" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the starting or first expense associated with a product, project, or service. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

28%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an initial cost" clearly signifies the first expense related to something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage across various domains, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While alternatives like "upfront expense" or "starting expenditure" exist, "an initial cost" remains a versatile and commonly understood term. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by distinguishing it from the overall or recurring costs, and always present it alongside any relevant long-term implications for a comprehensive understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

upfront expense

Focuses on the immediate nature of the cost, highlighting that it's paid at the beginning.

starting expenditure

Emphasizes the commencement of spending in a project or venture.

preliminary outlay

Highlights that the cost is an early investment or disbursement of funds.

first investment

Suggests that the cost is part of a larger investment strategy.

setup fee

Specifically refers to a charge for setting up a service or account.

commencement charge

Emphasizes the fee associated with beginning a service or project.

launch cost

Highlights the expenses related to launching a new product or service.

primary expense

Focuses on the main cost at the beginning of something.

original investment

Highlights the investment made at the very beginning of an endeavor.

basic expenditure

Implies a fundamental cost required to start a project or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "an initial cost" in a sentence?

You can use "an initial cost" to describe the first expense related to a purchase, project, or service. For example, "The "initial cost" of the software is $500, but there are also monthly subscription fees."

What's the difference between "an initial cost" and "a recurring cost"?

"An initial cost" refers to the one-time expense at the beginning, while "a recurring cost" refers to expenses that occur regularly, such as monthly or annual fees. The "initial cost" might be high, but the recurring costs could be low, or vice versa.

What are some alternatives to using "an initial cost"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "upfront expense", "starting expenditure", or "preliminary outlay". All these options emphasize the idea of a cost incurred at the beginning of something.

Is it better to focus on "an initial cost" or the long-term value?

It depends on your priorities and the specific situation. Sometimes a lower "initial cost" is appealing, even if the long-term value is lower. In other cases, it makes sense to invest more upfront for better long-term returns or lower maintenance costs.