at no expense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at no expense" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is provided or done without any cost or financial burden. Example: "The company offered the training program at no expense to the employees, ensuring everyone could participate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Christie's spokesman assured reporters that the governor's trip came "at no expense to New Jersey taxpayers"; that may be exactly the problem.

The New Yorker

Christie's spokesman assured reporters that the governor's trip came "at no expense to New Jersey taxpayers"; that may be exactly the problem.

The New Yorker

Such assistance shall be at no expense to the Government.

Cornell University

Moreover, the improved performance is almost at no expense of power dissipation.

AEU - International Journal of Electronics and Communications

They will be given a lawyer at no expense and will have the right to remain silent.

The Economist

The state, he said, provides all the hardware, software, installation costs and training at no expense to a town.

The New York Times

The program is offered at no expense to attendees but costs the Institute $6,000 per student.

MIT Technology Review

The applicant may be represented at this hearing by an attorney of his/her own choice at no expense to the Government.

Cornell University

(F) That the member may consult with a legal assistance attorney, if reasonably available, or a civilian attorney at no expense to the government.

Cornell University

The bright spot is the twice-Oscar-nominated Blethyn, who squawks and scolds with delightful brio, at no expense to her character's latent pain.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

His successful auto industry bailout, fiercely contested at the time, saved countless jobs at virtually no expense to the taxpayer.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at no expense", clearly specify who is benefiting from the lack of cost to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Training is provided at no expense", specify "Training is provided at no expense to the employees".

Common error

Avoid using "at no expense" when there are some costs involved, even if minimal. The phrase implies a complete absence of financial burden. If there's a small fee or related cost, consider using phrases like "at a reduced cost" or "at minimal expense" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at no expense" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that something is provided or done without any financial cost. Ludwig confirms this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at no expense" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that something is provided without cost. According to Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in News & Media, Academia and Science, but can also be used in more informal situations. When using the phrase, be sure to specify to whom there is no expense. Alternative phrasing includes free of charge, without cost, and similar expressions, depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

free of charge

Emphasizes the lack of any payment required.

without cost

Highlights the absence of financial outlay.

at no charge

Similar to "free of charge", stressing no fee is applied.

at no cost to

Specifies who is not bearing the expense.

at no financial burden

Focuses on the lack of a financial strain.

without financial implications

Highlights the absence of financial consequences.

gratis

A more formal term for "free".

complimentary

Often used in a commercial context to indicate something is given freely.

for nothing

An informal way of saying "at no expense".

on the house

Typically used when something is offered free in a restaurant or bar setting.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "at no expense" in a formal context?

In formal writing, consider using phrases such as "free of charge", "without cost", or "at no charge" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it correct to say "at no expense of" or "at no expense to"?

The correct preposition to use with "at no expense" is "to". Therefore, "at no expense to [someone]" is the grammatically correct form.

What's the difference between "at no expense" and "at a discount"?

"At no expense" means something is completely free, while "at a discount" implies that there is a reduced price but still a cost involved.

Can I use "at no expense" when the cost is covered by a third party?

Yes, you can use "at no expense" when a third party covers the cost. For example, "The trip was at no expense to the employee because the company paid for it."