feel expensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feel expensive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that gives an impression of luxury or high quality, often in relation to products or experiences. Example: "The fabric of this dress feels expensive, making it perfect for the gala."

✓ Grammatically correct

Products and services conveying luxury or high value

Subjective impressions of cost or quality

Descriptions of sensory experiences related to perceived value

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"It didn't feel expensive.

The Guardian - Business

Annuities can also feel expensive.

The New York Times

But will it help Sony compete against iPhone and Android apps that have made £5.99 feel expensive for a game?

The Guardian - Tech

One goal of every carmaker is to make the more affordable models look and feel expensive, and almost no one is doing that better than Hyundai and Kia.

The New York Times

No bezel makes the watch look like it's all screen and with a good selection of attractive watch faces making it look and feel expensive.

The Guardian - Tech

Where the initial outlay can feel expensive, you are likely to see an LED bulb paying for itself in under three years and a CFL within a year.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"The FTSE 100 at 4,000 feels expensive," he said.

The Guardian - Money

Her make-up glows, her outfit — black and fashionable — feels expensive.

The Times

With its leather-like back and the stitching around it, the phone feels expensive and well made in my hands.

The Guardian - Tech

A lame cappuccino and a plate of eggs, so-so Hollandaise and hot-smoked salmon that, while it had good flavour, also had an oddly dry texture, and felt expensive at £10.25.

The Guardian - Travel

"The packaging has a matte finish, so it's tactile and feels expensive.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feel expensive" to describe the tactile experience or sensory impression of luxury, not just the price point.

Common error

Avoid using "feel expensive" solely based on a high price tag. The phrase should reflect a perceived sense of luxury, quality, or superior craftsmanship, even if the item is not actually expensive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feel expensive" functions as a descriptive expression. It combines a verb of perception ("feel") with an adjective ("expensive") to convey a sensory impression of high quality or cost. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feel expensive" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the sensory impression of luxury or high quality. Ludwig AI validates its usability, and while it's suitable for various contexts, including news and media, more formal alternatives might be preferred in professional settings. Remember to focus on the perceived quality and sensory experience rather than solely relying on the price tag when using this expression. The frequency of "feel expensive" across various sources confirms its established place in contemporary English usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

possess an upscale feel

Similar to "feel expensive", but uses 'upscale' instead of 'expensive'.

seem high-end

Indicates a perception of something being in the upper price range.

exude luxury

Focuses on the outward impression of luxury rather than the sensory experience.

suggest high value

Indicates that something gives the impression of being valuable.

have a luxurious quality

Highlights the inherent luxurious attributes of something.

give off an air of opulence

Emphasizes the atmosphere of richness that something projects.

radiate sophistication

Focuses on the refined and cultured impression that something conveys.

project a sense of affluence

Highlights the impression of wealth and prosperity.

have a top-tier vibe

Emphasizes the overall atmosphere of being of the highest quality or status.

offer a premium experience

Emphasizes the high quality and exclusivity of the experience.

FAQs

How can I use "feel expensive" in a sentence?

You can use "feel expensive" to describe the sensory impression of a product or experience. For instance, "The fabric of this dress "feels expensive", making it perfect for the gala".

What's a good alternative to "feel expensive"?

Alternatives include "exude luxury", "seem high-end", or "possess an upscale feel" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "feel expensive" in formal writing?

Yes, "feel expensive" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing subjective impressions of quality or luxury. However, consider more formal alternatives like "exude luxury" or "have a luxurious quality" for a more elevated tone.

What does it mean when something "feels expensive"?

When something ""feels expensive"", it gives the impression of being high quality, luxurious, or valuable, often based on its texture, design, or overall sensory experience, regardless of its actual price.