it's not cheap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it's not cheap" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express that something is expensive or not affordable. It can be used in various contexts, such as when describing the price of an item or the cost of a service. Example: "I really love that designer handbag, but it's not cheap. I don't think I can afford it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"IT'S not easy, it's not cheap, and it's not optional".

The Economist

It's not cheap for what's perceived as a horrible solution".

The New York Times

And it's not cheap.

The New York Times - Food

"It's not cheap".

The New York Times

Again, it's not cheap.

The New York Times

But it's not cheap.

The Guardian - Money

It's not cheap mind.

The Guardian - Travel

Unfortunately, it's not cheap.

The Guardian - Travel

Of course it's not cheap.

Independent

"It's not cheap," she said.

The New York Times

At $199, it's not cheap.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it's not cheap", consider whether adding a specific price point or a comparative cost (e.g., "it's not cheap compared to other options") would enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it's not cheap" when you mean something is poorly made or of low quality, as this phrase specifically refers to price. Use phrases like "it's poorly made" or "it's low quality" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's not cheap" functions primarily as a statement of cost, indicating that something is expensive or unaffordable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common and grammatically correct expression. The examples show it used in contexts ranging from everyday purchases to business investments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it's not cheap" is a common and grammatically correct way to say something is expensive. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability, and examples show it appearing frequently in news and media contexts. While semantically similar phrases like "it's quite expensive" or "it's rather costly" exist, "it's not cheap" maintains a straightforward and easily understood tone. Remember to use this phrase when specifically referring to price, and avoid using it to describe poor quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it doesn't come cheap

A slightly more emphatic way of saying it is not cheap.

it's quite expensive

Replaces "cheap" with "expensive" emphasizing the high cost.

it's rather costly

Substitutes "cheap" with "costly", suggesting a significant expense.

it's not inexpensive

Uses a double negative to imply high cost, a more formal alternative.

it's on the pricier side

Indicates that the item or service is relatively expensive compared to others.

it comes at a premium

Suggests the item or service is high-quality and therefore expensive.

it's a bit pricey

Indicates that something is somewhat expensive without being overly so.

it will break the bank

Emphasizes that the cost is very high, potentially causing financial strain.

it costs an arm and a leg

An idiomatic expression meaning very expensive.

it carries a high price tag

Focuses on the high price, indicating it is a significant factor.

FAQs

How can I use "it's not cheap" in a sentence?

You can use "it's not cheap" to indicate that something is expensive. For example, "While the service is excellent, "it's not cheap"."

What is a less direct way to say "it's not cheap"?

You can use alternatives like "it's quite expensive", "it's rather costly", or "it's on the pricier side".

Is it better to say "it's not cheap" or "it's expensive"?

Both "it's not cheap" and "it's expensive" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the context and desired emphasis. "It's not cheap" can sometimes imply surprise or mild disapproval, while "it's expensive" is a more straightforward statement of fact.

When should I avoid using the phrase "it's not cheap"?

Avoid using "it's not cheap" if you want to describe poor quality rather than high price. Instead, use terms like "it's poorly made" or "it's low quality".