approximate cost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approximate cost" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an estimated price or expense for a product or service. Example: "The approximate cost of the renovation project is estimated to be around $15,000."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is clear and unambiguous and the parties understood the terms thereof, and the approximate cost of fulfilling the obligations could have been approximately ascertained.

Harvard University

Approximate cost is $100.

Cornell University

The approximate cost to Rebuilding Together was $41,000.

The New York Times

Transfer from the airport by reservation (approximate cost 50 euros).

Harvard University

It remains so today, at an approximate cost of $60,000 a court.

The New York Times - Sports

A function that calculates the approximate cost of a problem (or ranks alternatives).

Nature

The approximate cost of bringing such sophisticated tools on-line: $5 million.

Harvard Business Review

That's the $135 million question -- the approximate cost of all the commercials to run during the game.

The New York Times

The approximate cost of genetic testing to predict a patient's response to the commonly prescribed blood thinner warfarin.

MIT Technology Review

The Web site promises "a new way to fly for the approximate cost of first class airfare".

The New York Times - Travel

But it should include Web links where possible and specific suggestions (with approximate cost) for lodging, food, activities and transportation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "approximate cost", ensure that the context clearly indicates the potential for variation. For instance, specify the factors that might influence the final cost to avoid misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid presenting an "approximate cost" as a definitive figure. Always use qualifying language to emphasize that it's an estimate, not a fixed amount, to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approximate cost" functions as a noun phrase, where "approximate" modifies the noun "cost". It indicates an estimated or rough value, rather than a precise amount. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is widely used and considered correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "approximate cost" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to convey an estimated expense. As verified by Ludwig AI, its frequent use across diverse domains such as news, academia, and science underscores its versatility. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by indicating potential variances and avoiding its presentation as a definitive sum. Alternatives such as "estimated price" or "rough estimate" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. Understanding these nuances will allow for more effective communication when discussing financial estimates.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

estimated price

Focuses on the price aspect, emphasizing that it's an estimation.

rough estimate

Highlights the preliminary and imprecise nature of the cost assessment.

approximate expense

Replaces "cost" with "expense", providing a synonym with similar meaning.

ballpark figure

Uses an idiomatic expression to suggest a general idea of the cost.

preliminary cost

Emphasizes that the cost is subject to change as it's still in the early stages.

projected expenditure

More formal, suitable for budget discussions and financial forecasting.

anticipated cost

Implies that the cost is expected but not yet confirmed.

indicative price

Suggests the price is for indication purposes only and may vary.

close cost

Highlights that the cost is relatively near to the real value.

approximate outlay

Replaces the term "cost" with a slightly more formal synonym outlay.

FAQs

How can I use "approximate cost" in a sentence?

You can use "approximate cost" when discussing an estimated expense for a service or product, as in "The approximate cost of the repair will be around $500".

What's a less formal way to say "approximate cost"?

For a less formal alternative, consider using "rough estimate" or "ballpark figure" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "approximate cost" or "exact cost"?

"Approximate cost" refers to an estimated cost, while "exact cost" refers to the precise cost. Use "approximate cost" when you don't have the final figure and "exact cost" when you do.

How does "approximate cost" differ from "projected expenditure"?

"Approximate cost" is a general estimate, while "projected expenditure" is usually a more formal and detailed forecast of expenses, often used in financial planning.