cheap thrills

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cheap thrills" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe something that is exciting or enjoyable but does not require much effort or expense. Example: "Instead of spending a lot of money on an expensive vacation, we decided to have some cheap thrills by going on a road trip to explore nearby towns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

All cheap thrills.

The New York Times - Arts

We're talking cheap thrills here.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Cheap thrills aren't what interest him.

The Guardian - Books

People want their cheap thrills, but more cheaply.

The Economist

Not that cheap thrills don't retain their allure.

The New York Times

More songs about cheap thrills and budget sportswear.

The Guardian - Music

As for cheap thrills, there's dirt aplenty and considerable mayhem.

The New Yorker

Quentin Tarantino delivered cheap thrills guised as le cinéma.

The New York Times - Books

Clinton, too, admits to seeking "little cheap thrills" in mysteries.

The New York Times - Books

As cheap thrills go, both expensive and insipid.

The New York Times - Arts

Metal was about cheap thrills and a no-nonsense approach to life.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cheap thrills", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning, whether it's lighthearted fun or something more questionable. The phrase can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, implying superficiality or a lack of sophistication.

Common error

Avoid using "cheap thrills" in formal writing, such as academic papers or business reports. It is more appropriate for informal contexts, like casual conversations or blog posts. Opt for more sophisticated or descriptive language when a formal tone is necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cheap thrills" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a category of experiences or activities. As noted by Ludwig, it is a commonly used phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

4%

Reference

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cheap thrills" is a common noun phrase used to describe affordable and easily accessible sources of excitement or enjoyment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, primarily within news and media contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it is important to consider potential negative connotations related to superficiality, and also it's important to avoid its use in formal documents. Alternative phrases like "simple pleasures" or "affordable excitement" may be more suitable depending on the specific meaning and the desired level of formality. Its accessibility and broad applicability make it a frequent fixture in informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

affordable excitement

Directly addresses the financial accessibility while retaining the element of excitement, providing a more descriptive alternative.

quick kicks

Similar in conveying a burst of excitement but may imply a more transient and potentially addictive experience.

budget-friendly fun

Emphasizes the cost-effectiveness and the enjoyment derived, presenting a more family-friendly connotation.

low-cost entertainment

Highlights affordability, but removes the emotional component of excitement or thrill.

simple pleasures

Focuses on the ease and contentment derived from basic activities or experiences, lacking the intensity of "thrills".

small joys

Highlights the happiness derived from modest sources, differing from the intensity of "thrills".

easy entertainment

Concentrates on the accessibility and undemanding nature of the amusement, shifting the focus from the emotional response.

minor indulgences

Highlights the aspect of self-gratification and permissibility, differing from the excitement implied by "thrills".

instant gratification

Underscores the immediacy and fulfillment of desires, setting aside the aspect of excitement.

guilty pleasures

Emphasizes the enjoyment of something that one might feel ashamed of or secretive about, adding a moral dimension absent in "cheap thrills".

FAQs

How can I use "cheap thrills" in a sentence?

You can use "cheap thrills" to describe easily accessible and affordable sources of excitement or enjoyment. For example: "The movie offered nothing but "cheap thrills" and predictable plot twists."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "cheap thrills"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "simple pleasures", "minor indulgences", or "affordable excitement". Each alternative slightly shifts the emphasis while retaining the core idea.

Does "cheap thrills" have a negative connotation?

Sometimes, yes. While it can simply mean affordable fun, it can also imply that something is superficial or lacking in substance. The connotation depends heavily on context and delivery.

Is it appropriate to use "cheap thrills" in formal writing?

Generally, no. The phrase "cheap thrills" is considered informal and is better suited for casual conversations, blog posts, or creative writing. More formal contexts might require more descriptive or sophisticated language.