but more expensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but more expensive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more items, indicating that one option has a higher cost than another. Example: "The basic model is cheaper, but more expensive is the premium version with additional features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Such tests are readily available but more expensive.

The New York Times - Science

(Helium is safer, the activists said, but more expensive).

The New York Times

Limos are also readily available but more expensive.

Independent

Cedar and redwood are maintenance-free but more expensive.

The New York Times

A better but more expensive method is freeze-drying.

The New York Times - Food

Granite being more durable than marble, it was preferred, but more expensive.

The New York Times

It was nearly odorless, but more expensive than other paints ($60 a gallon).

The New York Times

Once those needs are largely met, people will switch to more flavorful, but more expensive, foods.

The New York Times

Nickel-content alloys are a better choice for durability, but more expensive.

The Economist

Her San Francisco penthouse has a similar, but more expensive, aesthetic.

The New York Times

Another method that is faster and more effective, but more expensive, is to use dehumidifiers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing options, use "but more expensive" to clearly signal a tradeoff between benefits and cost. For example, "This model is faster, but more expensive."

Common error

Avoid using "but more expensive" repeatedly within a short paragraph. Instead, vary your language with alternatives like "though pricier" or "however, costing more" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but more expensive" functions as a contrastive conjunction linking two related ideas where the second introduces a higher cost. This usage aligns with Ludwig's confirmation of its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but more expensive" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction to express a trade-off involving a higher cost. As confirmed by Ludwig, it effectively connects two related ideas, highlighting that the latter option entails a greater financial investment. This phrase is commonly found in diverse sources, with News & Media being the most prevalent, followed by Science and Wiki. When writing, consider alternatives like "though pricier" or "however, costing more" to avoid repetition. Overall, "but more expensive" is a clear and concise way to convey cost implications when comparing options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but pricier

Replaces "expensive" with a shorter, more informal synonym.

though at a higher cost

Substitutes "but" with "though" and rephrases "more expensive" to emphasize the cost factor.

however, costing more

Replaces "but" with "however" and uses a participle clause to indicate the higher cost.

yet at an increased price

Replaces "but" with "yet" and uses "increased price" as a more formal alternative to "more expensive".

albeit with greater expense

Uses a more formal structure with "albeit" and "greater expense".

on the other hand, it costs more

Provides a more explicit contrast, highlighting the increased cost.

while being costlier

Uses "while" to introduce the contrasting fact of being more costly.

at a premium price point

Focuses on the price level being higher, implying exclusivity.

carrying a higher price tag

Uses a metaphor to describe the increased cost.

accompanied by greater expenditure

Emphasizes the spending aspect using formal language.

FAQs

How can I use "but more expensive" in a sentence?

Use "but more expensive" to contrast two options, highlighting that one has a higher price. For instance, "The upgrade offers better performance, "but more expensive" than the standard version."

What are some alternatives to saying "but more expensive"?

You can use alternatives such as "but pricier", "however costing more", or "yet at an increased price", depending on the context and desired formality.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but"?

Starting a sentence with "but" is grammatically acceptable and commonly used to introduce a contrast or exception to a previous statement. For example: "The initial cost is lower. "But more expensive" is the maintenance."

What's the difference between "but more expensive" and "but more cost-effective"?

"But more expensive" simply indicates a higher price. "But more cost-effective" implies that the higher price is justified by greater value or long-term savings. If something is "but more cost effective" it may initially be "but more expensive".