least cost effective

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least cost effective" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when discussing the financial efficiency of something. In other words, it means the option or solution that is the least expensive while still being effective or efficient. Example: "After careful analysis, we have determined that the least cost-effective option for our company is to outsource our marketing efforts." This means that outsourcing the marketing efforts would be the cheapest option, but it may not be the most effective in terms of results. Another example: "The new technology, although promising, may not be the best choice for our company as it is the least cost effective solution." This means that while the new technology may be cheaper, it may not be as efficient or effective as other options.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

As expected, amniocentesis based on advanced maternal age only is the least cost effective option, with a cost effectiveness ratio of $C74 037 per case of Down's syndrome.

British Medical Journal

43 A cost-effectiveness analysis reported that 'individually adapted behaviour change' and 'social support' programmes are the least cost effective but produce the largest effect, adding 35 43% increases in recommended physical activity.

BMJ Open

Regardless of which measure is used, the TST only strategy remains the least cost effective strategy.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

Yield was lowest for media advertising which was also the least cost effective method per household randomised.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

The TST alone was still the least cost effective option (£67,034 per active TB case prevented).

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

TB dual screening was the most cost effective strategy while screening with the TST alone was the least cost effective strategy.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The hybrid scenario, in which individuals with severe hemophilia A initially receive prophylaxis and then switch to treatment on demand, is the least cost-effective, with incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) of €119,134 versus the on-demand strategy.

ClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research

Over 50 years, the two-stage ditch ranked second in cost-effectiveness and cover crops were least cost-effective, while over 10 years, cover crops were second and two-stage ditches were least cost-effective.

Water Resources and Economics

For each stratum of 10 countries ranked from most to least cost-effective, table 5 displays the median cost-effectiveness for the first 3-year campaigns, for possible second campaigns, and for ART.

BMJ Open

The screening strategy was the most effective, but the least cost-effective strategy, whereas the Dutch guideline had less effect but involved even higher costs.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

The 72 cost-effectiveness ratios were divided in four groups, ranging from least cost-effective to most cost-effective.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing multiple options, clearly define the metrics used to evaluate both cost and effectiveness to justify why something is labeled "least cost effective".

Common error

Avoid assuming that the cheapest option is always the "least cost effective". Focus on the balance between cost and the achieved outcome, as a slightly more expensive option might offer significantly better results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least cost effective" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun to describe something that offers poor value in relation to its cost. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in contexts like healthcare and business strategies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis reveals that "least cost effective" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, primarily functioning as an adjective to describe something that offers the worst value for its cost. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and common usage. Its presence is most prominent in scientific publications, news reports, and formal business documents, reflecting its role in objective evaluations. The phrase helps to highlight inefficiencies and guide decision-making. To use it effectively, define the metrics used to assess cost and benefits. Alternatives include "most economically inefficient" and "worst value for money". When using this phrase, remember that the cheapest option isn't automatically the "least cost effective".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most economically inefficient

Replaces "least cost effective" with its direct antonym, focusing on economic inefficiency.

least efficient in terms of cost

Focuses on the lack of efficiency relative to the cost involved.

worst value for money

Emphasizes the poor relationship between cost and benefit.

most expensive for the outcome

Directly compares the high cost with the resulting outcome.

economically substandard

Highlights the economic inadequacy or inferiority.

suboptimal expenditure

Highlights that spending is not ideal or well-optimized.

economically unviable

Suggests that the subject is not sustainable or practical from an economic perspective.

least economically sound

Focuses on the lack of economic prudence or stability.

poorest return on investment

Specifically refers to investments and their low yield.

most wasteful economically

Emphasizes the inefficient use of economic resources.

FAQs

How can I use "least cost effective" in a sentence?

You can use "least cost effective" when describing an option or strategy that yields the smallest benefit for the amount of money spent. For example: "Among the proposed solutions, option C was determined to be the "least cost effective"."

What are some alternatives to "least cost effective"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "most economically inefficient", "worst value for money", or "most expensive for the outcome".

What's the difference between "least cost effective" and "most cost effective"?

"Least cost effective" refers to the option that provides the smallest benefit relative to its cost, while "most cost effective" refers to the option that provides the greatest benefit relative to its cost.

Is it always bad to be "least cost effective"?

Generally, being "least cost effective" is undesirable, as it implies inefficient resource allocation. However, sometimes, a "least cost effective" option might be chosen due to other constraints, such as ethical considerations or regulatory requirements.