at less expense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at less expense" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing cost savings or comparing the financial implications of different options or choices. Example: "By switching to a more efficient supplier, we can complete the project at less expense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Several Democratic lawmakers and others had said the building could be upgraded at less expense.

The New York Times

"I could do just as mediocre a job myself at less expense," Mr. Lane said.

The New York Times

How could we feed a fast-growing population at less expense?

MIT Technology Review

In Charleston, officials decided that many of the unit's duties could be carried out at less expense without the horses.

The New York Times

By focusing only on schools, government may waste money trying to fix academic problems that it could have prevented in the first place at less expense.

The New York Times

While some redundancy provides a useful hedge against risk, today's extensive overlap among and within the services is unnecessary and inefficient, especially when joint interdependencies can yield comparable war-fighting effectiveness at less expense".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"A World Cup could be held at much less expense if Fifa looked at a society's needs and did not fetishise luxury," Bond argues.

The Guardian - Sport

The secret to eternal youth can be found at much less expense, it appears.

The New York Times

The researchers say that the discovery of previously unknown high rates of reaction underground means CO2 could be sent there artificially, at far less expense.

Columbia University

Handy owners, however, can avoid buying steeply marked-up fluid from dealers and refill on their own at much less expense and without labor charges.

The New York Times

Benefits-related travel made by people in wheelchairs sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs and Medicaid could be made at far less expense by accessible taxi than by ambulette.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different options, use "at less expense" to clearly highlight which option offers a more economical advantage. For instance, "Switching to solar power allows us to generate electricity at less expense than relying on the traditional power grid."

Common error

Don't assume that "at less expense" automatically equates to higher profitability. Always analyze all cost factors and potential long-term implications. Lower expenses don't always mean better value if quality or service is compromised.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at less expense" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action is performed, specifically highlighting cost-effectiveness. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at less expense" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate cost savings. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, Scientific, and Formal & Business contexts, it serves to highlight financial advantages and justify decisions based on reduced expenditure. While versatile, understanding the subtle differences between "at less expense" and related terms like "more economically" or ""more efficiently"" will help you to clearly communicate your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a reduced cost

Highlights the reduction in cost, emphasizing savings.

at a cheaper rate

Highlights a lower price point.

cost-effectively

Stresses the efficiency of resource allocation.

at a lower price point

Highlights that the cost is lower in price.

more economically

Focuses on the economical aspect, suggesting resourcefulness in achieving a goal.

more affordably

Indicates that something is within financial reach for a larger audience.

with greater economy

Emphasizes careful and efficient management of resources.

more efficiently

Indicates improved resource utilization, indirectly suggesting lower costs.

on a budget

Implies operating within strict financial constraints.

with better value

Focuses on the value received for the money spent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "at less expense" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "at a reduced cost" or "more economically". These options often suit business or academic contexts.

What's a simple alternative to "at less expense" for everyday conversation?

In casual conversation, you can say "cheaper" or "more affordable". These options are direct and easy to understand.

Is it correct to say "at a less expense"?

No, the correct phrasing is "at less expense" without the article "a". The phrase describes a general condition of reduced cost, not a specific instance.

How does "at less expense" compare to "more efficiently"?

"At less expense" directly addresses cost savings, while "more efficiently" focuses on resource utilization and improved processes. While efficiency often leads to reduced costs, the terms aren't perfectly interchangeable. You might achieve something "more efficiently" without necessarily doing it at less expense.