at whatever cost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at whatever cost" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express that a goal or ambition should be pursued despite any obstacles or difficulties that may present themselves along the way. For example, "I am determined to succeed at whatever cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is a reckoning and a duty, at whatever cost.

The Washington Post

It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost".

The New York Times

"Although Lula has adopted the environmental talk, the practice is development at whatever cost," he said.

Independent

Bill Belichick's M.O. has always been to take away the offense's greatest strength, at whatever cost.

The New York Times

These letters are a quest for necessity — for what must be written about, at whatever cost.

The New Yorker

At whatever cost, the integrity of the original must be preserved.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's not right; we absolutely don't uphold the existing power at whatever cost," he said.

The New York Times

The IOC requires each venue to meet meticulous specifications at whatever cost.

The Guardian

But once attained, at whatever cost to the rest of us, would it satisfy?

The Guardian - Opinion

He determined to recover on his own terms, at whatever cost of time and energy.

The New York Times - Books

We have to take resolute measures at whatever cost to put down the counterrevolutionary riot...

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at whatever cost" when you want to emphasize a strong commitment to achieving a goal, even if it requires significant sacrifice or effort. This phrase adds a sense of determination and resolve to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "at whatever cost" in situations where the goal is trivial or the potential sacrifices are minimal. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound overly dramatic or insincere. Reserve it for situations where the stakes are genuinely high.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at whatever cost" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the condition under which an action is performed, emphasizing the extent of commitment involved. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

14%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Science

11%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at whatever cost" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey unwavering commitment to achieving a goal, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as an adverbial phrase, emphasizing the determination and sacrifices one is willing to make. While appropriate for various contexts, it is most commonly found in news, academic, and formal writing. When employing this phrase, ensure the context warrants such a strong declaration and avoid overuse in trivial situations. Consider alternatives like "regardless of the expense" or "no matter the sacrifice" to fine-tune the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regardless of the expense

Emphasizes financial implications, focusing on the monetary aspect of the cost.

no matter the sacrifice

Highlights the potential for personal or other losses in pursuing the goal.

at any sacrifice

Similar to 'no matter the sacrifice' but with a slightly more emphatic tone.

whatever the consequences

Focuses on the potential negative outcomes that might arise.

at all hazards

Suggests facing dangerous or risky situations without hesitation.

by any means necessary

Implies a willingness to use even morally questionable methods.

come what may

Expresses acceptance of whatever happens as a result of pursuing the goal.

despite any hardship

Focuses specifically on enduring difficult conditions.

irrespective of the difficulties

Highlights the presence of obstacles but affirms a determination to overcome them.

at any price

Like 'regardless of the expense', emphasizes a financial, material or emotional burden.

FAQs

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

Use "at whatever cost" to emphasize that a goal will be pursued regardless of difficulties. For example, "She was determined to finish the project, "at whatever cost"."

What are some alternatives to "at whatever cost"?

Alternatives include phrases like "regardless of the expense", "no matter the sacrifice", or "by any means necessary", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "at whatever cost" and "at all costs"?

"At whatever cost" and "at all costs" are often used interchangeably, but "at all costs" can sometimes imply a slightly more desperate or extreme approach. The phrase ""at whatever cost"" might be perceived as slightly more measured and considered.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "at whatever cost"?

It's appropriate in contexts where there is a significant objective to be achieved, such as overcoming adversity, achieving a long-term goal, or defending a principle. Avoid using it in trivial or everyday situations, as it can sound overly dramatic.