is less expensive than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less expensive than" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing the cost of two items or services, indicating that one is cheaper than the other. Example: "This model is less expensive than the previous version, making it a more budget-friendly option."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And the process is less expensive than drugs.

The New York Times

More plastic surgeons are familiar with implants, and the procedure is less expensive than tissue transfer.

The New York Times

In many cases treatment or counseling is less expensive than prosecution and incarceration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

While not inexpensive, the Grill is less expensive than its illustrious big brother.

The New York Times

Although old beef is less expensive than some other rare-breed steaks, it is not cheap.

The Guardian

"This side," she said, "is less expensive than this side," indicating the west side.

The New York Times

That is less expensive than the $1.67 per ride you pay with the bonus card.

The New York Times

Paying a guard to work overtime is less expensive than hiring another full-time guard.

The New Yorker

They drink, because the drink over here is less expensive than water.

The Guardian

And with the average meal costing $2.95, it is less expensive than lunch or dinner out.

The New York Times

He spent three years researching a nuclear fusion method that is less expensive than conventional models.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing costs, be specific about what factors contribute to the lower price. For instance, specify if it's due to lower material costs, simpler manufacturing, or bulk discounts.

Common error

Avoid using “"is less expensive than"” without clearly stating what it is being compared to. Ensure the comparison is relevant and meaningful to the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less expensive than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by stating that its associated cost is lower compared to something else. Ludwig provides numerous examples to illustrate this comparative function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is less expensive than" is a common and grammatically correct comparative phrase used to indicate a lower cost relative to another item or service. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its prevalence across various contexts, including news, science, and everyday discussions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is straightforward and widely accepted for its purpose of highlighting cost-effectiveness. When using this phrase, be sure to provide clear context for the comparison to ensure relevance and avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

costs less than

Direct synonym, focusing on the act of costing.

is cheaper than

More informal synonym for price comparison.

is more affordable than

Emphasizes accessibility of the price.

represents a better value than

Focuses on the overall value relative to the price.

is a more economical option than

Highlights the economic benefits.

is more budget-friendly than

Indicates suitability for tight budgets.

offers better savings than

Highlights the savings aspect.

is priced lower than

Focuses specifically on the pricing strategy.

is a bargain compared to

Implies a significant price advantage.

undercuts the price of

Highlights competitive pricing.

FAQs

How to use "is less expensive than" in a sentence?

Use "is less expensive than" to compare the price of two items or services, indicating that one has a lower cost. For example, "This model "is less expensive than" the previous version."

What can I say instead of "is less expensive than"?

You can use alternatives like "costs less than", "is cheaper than", or "is more affordable than" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is less expensive than" or "is more inexpensive than"?

"Is less expensive than" is correct. "More inexpensive" is redundant because "inexpensive" already implies "not expensive".

What's the difference between "is less expensive than" and "offers better value than"?

"Is less expensive than" refers specifically to the price. "Offers better value than" considers the overall benefits relative to the cost, which might include quality, features, or durability.