at a considerable cost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a considerable cost" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are referring to a high cost associated with something. For example: "He was able to purchase the car at a considerable cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Even the tiny clothes come at a considerable cost.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I stopped that instantly – at a considerable cost to the balance sheet".

The Guardian - Books

Those who decide to minimize the tax hit will do so, but at a considerable cost.

The New York Times

She has wanted to keep the tragedy to herself, at a considerable cost.

The Guardian

The Knicks won that battle, also adding Billups, but at a considerable cost.

The New York Times - Sports

But these reductions have come at a considerable cost to minority citizens, who, according to recent studies, are stopped and searched far more often than whites.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

We wish to get dynamic and continuous intravital data on the tumors at multiple scales and ultimately avoid using huge numbers of animals to get data that may only be a bit more accurate but at such a considerable cost in many different ways.

F1000Research

In case of a confirmation of our results, this would simplify routines in clinical practices for both the clinicians and the patients and would facilitate the scheduling appointments at epidemiological studies with a considerable cost reducing effect.

European Journal of Epidemiology

It is unlikely or, at least if they do, it will come at a very considerable cost.

The Guardian - Opinion

Water stressed cities now import water, pumped over large distances at a considerable energy cost.

The Guardian

Even if Trump does prevail, it could come at a considerable political cost to himself and his party.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at a considerable cost", ensure the context clearly defines what type of cost is being referred to: financial, emotional, or otherwise.

Common error

Avoid using "at a considerable cost" too frequently in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "at great expense" or "with significant repercussions" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a considerable cost" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action is performed or a state is achieved. It specifies that something is obtained or done with a significant sacrifice or expense. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

28%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a considerable cost" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to denote that something is achieved or obtained with a noteworthy sacrifice or expense. According to Ludwig AI, its use is grammatically correct and frequently encountered in diverse contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. It is essential to specify the type of cost to be clear when using this phrase and to also remember not to overuse this phrase in your writing. When applicable, consider replacing this phrase with synonyms such as "at great expense", "with serious consequences", or "at a high price".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at great expense

Focuses more directly on the financial aspect of the cost.

at a high price

Similar to "at great expense", but can also refer to non-monetary costs.

at a steep price

Implies that the cost is higher than expected or desired.

at a premium

Focuses on the elevated cost or value attached.

with significant repercussions

Emphasizes the negative consequences rather than the financial cost.

with serious consequences

Similar to "with significant repercussions", highlighting the gravity of the results.

at substantial sacrifice

Highlights the act of giving something up of value.

with major implications

Emphasizes the broad impact and potential consequences.

with notable disadvantages

Focuses on the drawbacks or negative aspects.

to a large degree

Highlights the extent to which something is impacted negatively, without directly mentioning cost.

FAQs

How can I use "at a considerable cost" in a sentence?

You can use "at a considerable cost" to indicate that something was achieved or obtained with a high price or sacrifice. For instance, "The company expanded its market share "at a considerable cost", incurring significant debt".

What are some alternatives to "at a considerable cost"?

Alternatives to "at a considerable cost" include phrases like "at great expense", "at a high price", or "with significant repercussions" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "at a considerable cost" the same as "at a high cost"?

While similar, "at a considerable cost" suggests a higher degree of expense or sacrifice than "at a high cost". "Considerable" implies that the cost is noteworthy or significant.

Can "at a considerable cost" refer to non-monetary expenses?

Yes, "at a considerable cost" can refer to non-monetary expenses such as emotional toll, time investment, or environmental damage. For example, "Maintaining secrecy came "at a considerable cost" to her mental health".