are not without cost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not without cost" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has associated expenses or consequences, even if those costs are not immediately apparent. Example: "While the benefits of this new policy are significant, they are not without cost, as we will need to allocate additional resources to implement it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

But these privileges are not without cost.

The Economist

Though these are positive changes, they are not without cost.

Harvard University

"Interbasin transfers are not without cost, environmental or otherwise".

The New York Times

Such obstacles are not without cost; at one point Ms. Lo talks about the strain and moments of self-doubt.

The New York Times - Arts

I believe it is essential that such conditions are applied, not just for discipline but also because the actions taken by the ECB are not without cost.

The Guardian - Business

Some union officials and their allies say the change in strategy also reflects a recognition that the traditional winter ad wars are not without cost to themselves, both in dollars — 1199 alone has spent as much as $10 million a year out of a joint fund with the Greater New York Hospital Association — and in public relations backlash.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

These challenges are not without costs.

The New York Times

Those things can live side by side, but they aren't without cost.

The Guardian

"I know these actions aren't without cost.

Forbes

The success was not without cost.

The New York Times

His provocations were not without cost.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are not without cost", ensure you specify what the costs are, either explicitly or implicitly, to provide context and clarity to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "are not without cost" as a vague warning. Always strive to identify and articulate the specific costs involved to provide valuable insight and avoid misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not without cost" functions as a qualifying statement. It acknowledges potential benefits while simultaneously pointing out that there are associated downsides or expenses. Ludwig examples highlight its use in various contexts to introduce the idea of trade-offs.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are not without cost" serves as a crucial linguistic tool for acknowledging trade-offs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. It functions to temper expectations and highlight potential downsides, rather than presenting a one-sided view. While its frequency is uncommon, its usage spans across news, scientific, and academic domains, suggesting a neutral register. To enhance clarity, specify what the costs are, either explicitly or implicitly. Alternatives such as "come at a price" or "entail certain consequences" can be used to achieve a similar effect depending on the specific context. When using "are not without cost", ensure you are precise about which costs are implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come at a price

Emphasizes the trade-off, highlighting the sacrifice or payment involved.

entail certain consequences

Focuses on the results or effects that inevitably follow an action or decision.

involve some sacrifices

Highlights the need to give up something valuable to achieve a desired outcome.

have associated expenses

Directly refers to the financial implications, whether obvious or hidden.

carry a certain burden

Implies a weight or responsibility that accompanies a particular choice or situation.

exact a toll

Suggests a negative impact or strain on resources, energy, or well-being.

require an investment

Highlights the need for resources (time, money, effort) to achieve a desired outcome.

present a challenge

Focuses on the difficulties or obstacles that must be overcome.

demand a commitment

Emphasizes the dedication and effort required for success.

have implications

Highlights the potential consequences, both positive and negative, of an action.

FAQs

What does "are not without cost" mean?

The phrase "are not without cost" means that even though something might seem beneficial or advantageous, it also involves some disadvantages, sacrifices, or negative consequences.

How can I use "are not without cost" in a sentence?

You can use "are not without cost" to highlight the drawbacks or challenges associated with a particular choice or situation. For example: "While the new technology offers many benefits, it "is not without cost" in terms of initial investment and training."

What can I say instead of "are not without cost"?

You can use alternatives like "come at a price", "entail certain consequences", or "involve some sacrifices" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "are not without cost" or "are costly"?

The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Are costly" directly emphasizes high expenses. "Are not without cost" acknowledges that there are expenses, but might also imply other types of costs beyond just monetary ones.