be cost-effective

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be cost-effective" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the efficiency of a method, process, or product in terms of its cost relative to its benefits. Example: "In order to maximize our budget, we need to ensure that all our marketing strategies are cost-effective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

First, will they be cost-effective?

The Economist

This will not necessarily be cost-effective or neat.

The Guardian

I can't blame them for wanting to be cost-effective.

The New York Times

We also thought our plan would be cost-effective.

The New York Times

Social media can be cost-effective, but it's not free.

The Guardian

How can this method of harvesting be cost-effective?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

This can be cost effective".

The New York Times

And it's got to be cost effective.

The New York Times

"It has to be cost effective in today's world.

The New York Times

But this would be cost effective".

BBC

The question is, will it be cost effective?

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When arguing for a project or strategy, quantify the benefits in monetary terms to demonstrate how it will "be cost-effective".

Common error

Don't assume the cheapest option is always the most "cost-effective". Consider long-term benefits and potential savings, not just the initial price.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be cost-effective" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its characteristic of providing good value for its price. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be cost-effective" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjective phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI. It's used to describe something offering good value in relation to its cost. While suitable for various contexts, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science publications. When using this phrase, focus on demonstrating the monetary benefits of an option, but remember the cheapest option isn't always the most "cost-effective" in the long run.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be cost-efficient

Emphasizes the ratio of cost to output or results.

be economical

Stresses the aspect of avoiding waste or excessive expenditure.

prove economical

Emphasizes the overall economic benefit or savings.

turn out to be efficient

Highlights the efficiency aspect of a process or solution.

offer good value for money

Focuses on the balance between price and the quality or benefits received.

deliver a high return on investment

Specifically relates to financial investments and the returns they generate.

be a worthwhile investment

Highlights the value and potential benefits justifies the initial expenditure

make financial sense

Suggests the decision or action is logically sound from a monetary perspective.

be budget-friendly

Highlights that it fits well within a set budget.

pay off

Indicates that the investment yields positive results or benefits over time.

FAQs

How can I use "be cost-effective" in a sentence?

You can use "be cost-effective" to describe strategies, technologies, or solutions that provide good value in relation to their cost. For example, "Implementing renewable energy sources can "be cost-effective" in the long run."

What's the difference between "be cost-effective" and "be efficient"?

"Be efficient" refers to achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense, whereas "be cost-effective" specifically relates the efficiency to the monetary cost. Something can "be efficient" without necessarily being the cheapest option.

What are some alternatives to "be cost-effective"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be economical", "be cost-efficient", or "offer good value for money".

Is it always better to "be cost-effective"?

While "be cost-effective" is generally desirable, it's crucial to consider other factors like quality, sustainability, and ethical implications. Sometimes, a slightly more expensive option might offer significantly better long-term benefits or align better with organizational values.