below cost

USAGE SUMMARY

"below cost" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe an item or service that is priced lower than its original cost. For example, "The store is selling the running shoes below cost, so it's a great deal!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

What is "below cost" in publishing?

TechCrunch

At that point the idea of "below cost" is moot.

TechCrunch

But what is "below cost" when it comes to e-books.

TechCrunch

But in return they have to work below cost".

The New York Times - Style

trading monopolies might sell below cost and thus disrupt markets.

The New York Times

It said mills were selling steel at prices below cost.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

There is another drawback to the below-cost model.

The New York Times

"The commission will seek the phasing-out of below-cost regulated prices by 2016.

The Guardian

Overhaul drinking laws, ban below-cost alcohol sales and "early warning" bans on new legal highs.

The Guardian

Ministers had also tackled the sale of below-cost alcohol, he added.

The Guardian

The easy money that gushed to the Internet fertilized a bumper crop of below-cost enterprises.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a temporary promotional strategy, clearly state the reason for pricing "below cost", such as clearing inventory or attracting new customers.

Common error

Avoid assuming that selling "below cost" is always unethical or predatory. Sometimes, it's a legitimate business strategy. Make sure to distinguish strategic pricing from genuinely unfair practices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "below cost" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the manner in which something is sold or priced. It describes the financial relationship between the selling price and the cost of the item or service. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "below cost" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe selling something for less than it cost to produce or acquire. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's used across various contexts, including news, business, and academic writing. While selling "below cost" can be a strategic move, it's essential to understand the implications and potential ethical considerations. Alternatives like "at a loss" or "underpriced" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. By understanding the contexts and implications, you can effectively use this phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less than the expense

Directly compares the selling price to the incurred expense, highlighting the deficit.

cheaper than production cost

Emphasizes that the sale price doesn't even cover the cost of making the item.

at a loss

Indicates selling something that results in financial loss, emphasizing the negative financial outcome.

loss leader

Describes a product sold at a loss to attract customers who will buy other, more profitable items.

underpriced

Highlights the act of setting a price too low, focusing on the pricing strategy.

sacrificing profit margins

Highlights the reduction in potential profit to achieve another goal, such as increased sales volume.

selling at a discount

Focuses on the reduced price being offered, with the intention of attracting customers.

slashing prices

Indicates a dramatic reduction in prices, often in response to competitive pressure.

at bargain prices

Suggests that prices are exceptionally low, typically to clear out stock.

for a pittance

Implies a very small amount of money is being charged, often suggesting the item is almost worthless.

FAQs

How can I use the term "below cost" in a sentence?

You can use "below cost" to describe items or services being sold for less than what it cost to produce or acquire them. For example, "The store is selling televisions "below cost" to clear out old inventory."

What's a simple alternative to "below cost"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at a loss", "underpriced", or "cheaper than production cost", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is selling "below cost" always considered illegal?

Not necessarily. While selling "below cost" can be a sign of predatory pricing, it's not always illegal. It often depends on the intent and the effect on competition.

What's the difference between selling "below cost" and offering a "discount"?

A "discount" is a reduction from the regular price, but it doesn't necessarily mean the item is sold for less than its cost. Selling ""below cost"" specifically means the selling price is lower than the expense incurred.