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
exact cost
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "exact cost" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific and precise amount of money required for a product or service. Example: "The exact cost of the project will be determined after we finalize the budget and resources needed."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Formal & Business
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
56 human-written examples
Whatever the exact cost, the railway shutdown has clearly affected several industries.
News & Media
The first matter of debate is the exact cost for the city's trash pickup efforts.
News & Media
He said there was no way to calculate the exact cost of the proposed system until it was approved.
News & Media
Although the exact cost depends upon the plan chosen, the average premium for 2006 costs $32.20 a month.
News & Media
He demanded 2,000 pounds for a hazardous river crossing - the exact cost of the house for his horse.
News & Media
"And if you do know the exact cost and the exact schedule, chances are that the technology is obsolete".
News & Media
The exact cost of heeding the court order is still a moving target, according to the plaintiffs, a group called the Campaign for Fiscal Equity.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
4 human-written examples
Exact cost-of-living comparisons are tricky, but according to Numbeo, a comparison website, local purchasing power in Berlin is more than 40% higher.
News & Media
Miller responds by saying, "I thought we all agreed on an amt- that number keeps changing" and "someone needs to explain exact cost- I have no way of handing surprise amounts".
News & Media
The simulation model described in this article was used to assess variation between scenarios not to estimate the exact cost-effectiveness of the scenarios.
Science
Although we have the calculated time consumption used for the intervention, we did not make an exact cost-effectiveness analysis, but this could be recommended in future studies.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "exact cost" when contrasting it with estimated or approximate figures. Doing so reinforces the message of precision in the financial information you are conveying.
Common error
Avoid using "exact cost" when you are referring to an approximation or a projected expense. "Exact cost" implies a known and precise amount, so using it for an estimate will be misleading. Be precise in your language to ensure accuracy in your financial reporting.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "exact cost" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It specifies a precise and definite financial figure, as seen in Ludwig's examples where it's used to discuss project budgets, healthcare expenses, and business deals.
Frequent in
News & Media
53%
Science
24%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
7%
Academia
3%
Reference
3%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "exact cost" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a precise financial figure. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's used across diverse contexts, but most frequently in News & Media and Science. The phrase serves to emphasize accuracy and specificity, distinguishing it from estimates or approximations. When aiming for financial precision in your writing, "exact cost" is a reliable choice. However, be mindful to use it only when referring to a known amount, avoiding its misapplication to estimates or projections. Using alternatives like "precise cost" or "specific expense" can add nuance depending on the context.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
precise cost
Emphasizes accuracy and lack of approximation in the cost.
accurate price
Highlights the correctness and reliability of the stated price.
specific expense
Focuses on a particular item of expenditure with no ambiguity.
actual expenditure
Stresses that the cost reflects what was truly spent, without estimates.
definitive price
Indicates the final and non-negotiable amount to be paid.
itemized cost
Implies a breakdown of expenses, showing individual components.
detailed pricing
Focuses on the thoroughness and completeness of the cost information.
exact price point
Highlights the specific monetary value at which something is offered.
precise financial outlay
Emphasizes the commitment of funds with a high degree of accuracy.
final cost
Suggests the ultimate and unchangeable expense, after all calculations.
FAQs
How can I use "exact cost" in a sentence?
You can use "exact cost" to refer to a precise and specific amount of money. For example, "We need to determine the "exact cost" before proceeding with the project."
What is a good alternative to "exact cost"?
Alternatives include "precise cost", "accurate price", or "specific expense", depending on the specific context.
Is it redundant to say "exact cost amount"?
Yes, "amount" is generally implied when discussing cost. Saying "exact cost amount" can be redundant. It's usually sufficient to state the "exact cost".
What's the difference between "approximate cost" and "exact cost"?
"Approximate cost" refers to an estimate or an educated guess, while "exact cost" refers to the precise, known amount. They are opposites in meaning and should be used accordingly.
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
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested