Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
cheap sense
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "cheap sense" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could potentially be used to describe a superficial or low-quality understanding of something, but the context would need to clarify its intent. Example: "His cheap sense of humor didn't resonate with the audience, leaving them unimpressed."
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(4)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Even when he was teaching at our law school and practicing law, he was a politician — but not in a cheap sense.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
Multi-robot system (MRS) has emerged as a product of cheap sensing and actuating capabilities of small, and moderately sophisticated robots and advancements in distributed problem-solving.
These microfluidic devices will be highly flexible and inexpensive, and thus are expected to become extremely competitive as compared to the alternative solutions for chemical and biological analysis and synthesis or cheap sensing.
Science
For example, Longo et al. [1] demonstrated how the measurement of train speed profiles over many days of operation has become much more practical with the advent of cheaper sensing technology and can be used to provide a better understanding of train performance and improve the timetabling process.
Science
The protocol has been developed into the design of a simple and cheap electrochemical sensing cell for the detection of sulphide in aqueous media.
Then, when I started telling a story about spending my postbaccalaureate years living in a sewage-filled basement (it was cheap!), I sensed that the European students couldn't relate.
Science & Research
Fig. 2 shows as an example the evolution of the genotype and allele frequencies in a run of the simulation model with a high cost of cooperation and a relatively cheap quorum sensing system (mC = 30.0, mS = 3.0, mR = 1.0), medium quorum threshold (ne = 3), high cooperation reward (r = 0.9) and no diffusion (D = 0.0).
Science
So in that sense, cheap oil does take the pressure off.
News & Media
Most destinations are predictable, expensive (or very cheap, in every sense) and unimaginative.
News & Media
And there was a cheap — in every sense — 1958 exploitation film, "The Bonnie Parker Story," starring Dorothy Provine.
News & Media
BOTTOM LINE A budget hotel that offers more than just cheap rooms: a sense of place and purpose.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "cheap sense", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a superficial understanding or a low-quality judgment. It's less common, so clarity is key.
Common error
Avoid using "cheap sense" when you mean "common sense". The phrase is not a standard substitute and could confuse your audience.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "cheap sense" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, implying a negative attribute related to understanding or judgment. Ludwig AI points out the phrase is not commonly used, suggesting careful application is necessary.
Frequent in
News & Media
40%
Science
30%
Wiki
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Academia
5%
Encyclopedias
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "cheap sense" is an uncommon expression that requires careful consideration. While not grammatically incorrect, it's infrequently used and could lead to misinterpretations. As Ludwig AI underlines, its intended meaning is generally a superficial or poor-quality understanding, distinct from "common sense". Consider alternatives like "shallow understanding" or "poor judgment" to ensure clarity. Its usage is more prominent in News & Media, but generally maintains an informal register. When using it, prioritize context to avoid confusion.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
shallow understanding
This highlights the lack of depth in comprehension.
superficial insight
This suggests a surface-level observation without real depth.
poor judgment
This alternative emphasizes the flawed nature of the decision-making process.
simplistic perspective
Highlights the oversimplified and potentially misleading nature of the viewpoint.
weak rationale
Indicates a lack of solid justification or reasoning.
flawed appreciation
Indicates a deficient understanding or enjoyment of something.
low quality perception
Focuses on the substandard nature of the sensory or cognitive experience.
inadequate discernment
Emphasizes a failure in the ability to distinguish or perceive subtle differences.
inferior assessment
Focuses on the low quality of the evaluation process.
deficient reasoning
Highlights the inadequacy in the logical thought process.
FAQs
How can I use "cheap sense" in a sentence?
While not common, you can use "cheap sense" to describe a superficial understanding or a low-quality judgment, as in "His "cheap sense" of humor didn't resonate with the audience".
What can I say instead of "cheap sense"?
You can use alternatives like "shallow understanding", "superficial insight", or "poor judgment" depending on the context.
Is "cheap sense" grammatically correct?
While not strictly incorrect, "cheap sense" is an uncommon phrase. Its acceptability depends on the context and whether it clearly conveys the intended meaning.
What's the difference between "cheap sense" and "common sense"?
"Common sense" refers to sound practical judgment, while "cheap sense" (though rare) would describe a superficial or low-quality understanding. They are not interchangeable.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested