less cheap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less cheap" is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to convey that something is more expensive (or less affordable) than something else. For example, you could say: "The new iPhone model is less cheap than its predecessor, but it has features that make it worth the extra money."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Less cheap grain, more fortified and biofortified foods.

The Economist

CHINESE GOODS LESS CHEAP China's latest export is inflation.

The New York Times

But on a longer view the Chinese currency looks less cheap.

The Economist

It is hungry for your books — it wants to buy them cheap and sell them slightly less cheap.

The New Yorker

China's consumer prices tend to be a little less cheap, relative to world standards, than its other prices.

The Economist

For Trouble in Paradise she wanted a record that sounded less cheap and gnarly, and tackled subjects beyond heartbreak.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The GMC truck may win the horsepower battle here, but the interior of the MDX is much cleaner and less cheap-looking.

Forbes

On the one hand, it's got a ton of bars selling more-or-less cheap booze and live music all hours of the night pretty much 24/7/365.

Vice

On the other hand, it's got a ton of bars selling more-or-less cheap booze and live music all hours of the night pretty much 24/7/365.

Vice

Smaller birds like parakeets will be less loud and cheaper.

WikiHow

Poky is indeed a factory, transforming cheap raw materials into a less-cheap finished product, as fast as bovinely possible.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less cheap", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are comparing the subject to. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "less cheap" when you simply mean "expensive". The phrase implies a comparison. If there's no comparison, opt for a more straightforward adjective like "costly" or "pricey".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less cheap" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that it has a higher price relative to something else. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to make direct price comparisons.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less cheap" is a grammatically correct and commonly used comparative adjective phrase that indicates something is more expensive than something else. Ludwig AI confirms this, noting its frequent appearance in news and media sources. While acceptable in neutral contexts, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "more expensive" or "less economical". When using "less cheap", it's crucial to ensure a clear comparison is present to avoid ambiguity. By understanding its comparative nature and preferred contexts, you can effectively use "less cheap" to convey nuanced price information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more expensive

Directly indicates a higher price point.

relatively costly

Implies a higher cost compared to a standard or alternative.

less economical

Focuses on the financial efficiency of the option.

somewhat pricier

Suggests a slight increase in price.

not the cheapest option

States directly that a better-value choice is available.

more high-end

Highlights elevated quality and price.

less affordable

Highlights reduced accessibility due to cost.

at a higher price point

Emphasizes the cost as a defining characteristic.

increased in price

Highlights that the item was initially inexpensive and has gradually become more pricey.

moderately priced

Suggests a balance between affordability and quality.

FAQs

How can I use "less cheap" in a sentence?

Use "less cheap" to compare the price of two or more items or services. For example, "This brand is "less cheap" than the generic version, but it offers better quality".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "less cheap"?

You can use alternatives such as "more expensive", "relatively costly", or "less economical" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less cheap"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. It functions as a comparative adjective phrase indicating something is not as inexpensive as something else. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is correct and usable.

What is the difference between "less cheap" and "expensive"?

"Expensive" describes something with a high price in general. "Less cheap" implies a comparison; something is more expensive than something else. For example, the product is "less cheap" than before, but it is still "more affordable" than its competitor.