initial charge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initial charge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to finance, technology, or any situation where a starting fee or energy level is discussed. Example: "The initial charge for setting up the service is $50, which will be added to your first bill."

✓ Grammatically correct

Finance

Technology

Legal

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Three years after Dr. Schwartz's initial charge, it declined to join her false-claims litigation.

The New York Times

Some funds may have an initial charge which you pay direct from your investment.

The Guardian - Money

There is an initial charge of £350 and annual fees of £400, but no transaction charges.

The Guardian - Money

After midnight, rates rise to an initial charge of 2.75 liras and 3.5 liras per kilometer.

The New York Times - Travel

Never pay an initial charge unless you are receiving a full advice service.

The Guardian - Money

But their initial charge was essentially to create New Deal propaganda.

The New York Times - Arts

Will allow lower initial charge, v high speed trip & long detours, like NYTimes drive.

The New York Times

So has Mr. Paul's initial charge that President Barack Obama's criticism of BP was "anti-American".

The New York Times

Mr Gutsche's overage, it should be noted, was nearly 40 times larger than his initial charge.

The Economist

On funds where there is no initial charge this deal will result in a 1% profit for the investor.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Figure 4 Initial charge-discharge profiles of LiFePO 4 /C.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing fees, be specific. Instead of just saying "initial charge", clarify what the charge covers (e.g., setup, activation, etc.).

Common error

Avoid using "initial charge" when referring to ongoing fees. An initial charge is a one-time fee, while recurring charges happen regularly (monthly, annually, etc.).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initial charge" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It describes a beginning cost, duty or stage as showcased in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

6%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "initial charge" is a versatile and commonly used noun phrase with a grammatically correct structure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's readily acceptable in English writing. Its primary function is to denote a starting cost, duty, or stage, often within financial, technological, or legal contexts. While alternatives like ""starting fee"" or "upfront cost" exist, "initial charge" maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse applications. It is important to use this expression to describe the specific beginning phase of the charge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting fee

Focuses specifically on the cost aspect, emphasizing the beginning payment.

upfront cost

Highlights that the cost is paid at the beginning.

preliminary fee

Similar to starting fee but also includes other expenses besides the payment aspect.

introductory price

Emphasizes the price offered at the start, often suggesting a temporary or promotional rate.

first installment

Refers to the first payment in a series of payments.

original accusation

Refers to the first or primary accusation someone faced when there are multiple charges.

primary responsibility

Focuses on the initial duty or task assigned.

initial responsibility

Highlights the very first responsibility that someone has.

initial power

Refers to the first measure of power or electricity.

initial energy

Emphasizes the power supply capacity at the very beginning.

FAQs

What does "initial charge" mean?

The "initial charge" refers to a one-time fee or cost that is applied at the beginning of a service, agreement, or transaction. It's distinct from recurring fees or ongoing expenses.

How to use "initial charge" in a sentence?

You can use "initial charge" in a sentence like this: "The "starting fee" for setting up the service is $50, which will be added to your first bill."

What can I say instead of "initial charge"?

You can use alternatives like ""starting fee"", "upfront cost", or "preliminary fee" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "initial charge" and "recurring charge"?

Yes, the "initial charge" is a one-time fee applied at the start, while a "recurring charge" is a regular, ongoing fee (e.g., monthly subscription).