less expensive

USAGE SUMMARY

"less expensive" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it to express the idea that something is not as costly as something else. For example, "This car is less expensive than the one I was looking at yesterday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Gucci, it's less expensive.

The New York Times

Bindings, too, became less expensive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Indirect, and also less expensive.

The New Yorker

Was it less expensive?

The New York Times - Travel

Prescriptions are less expensive.

The Guardian

"It would have been far less expensive.

The New York Times

They are less expensive than new ammunition.

The New York Times

Later, he found less expensive accommodations.

The New Yorker

But there are less expensive solutions.

The New York Times - Food

Performing arts boards are typically less expensive.

The New York Times

Less expensive than a supercharged R-2.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing prices, use "less expensive" to clearly indicate which option offers better value, such as "Opting for the train is less expensive than flying."

Common error

Be specific about what you are comparing. Saying "This is less expensive" without context leaves the comparison unclear. Instead, state "This option is less expensive than the alternative."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less expensive" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that its cost is lower relative to something else. Ludwig AI confirms that it's commonly used to compare prices or values.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less expensive" serves as a comparative adjective phrase, commonly employed to present a cost comparison. Ludwig AI validates the phrase's grammatical correctness and frequent usage across a multitude of contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, and also present in Wiki and Formal & Business categories, it demonstrates a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. To enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity, specify the points of comparison and don't use "more inexpensive". Alternatives like "cheaper" or "more affordable" can offer simpler or nuanced substitutes, depending on the message you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cheaper

A more direct and simple synonym for lower price.

more affordable

Focuses on the ability of someone to pay for something.

lower in cost

A straightforward comparison of price levels.

more economical

Emphasizes cost savings through efficient resource use.

reduced in price

Indicates a deliberate action to decrease the price.

cost-effective

Highlights a good value for the money spent.

at a lower price point

Highlights a specific price level that is reduced.

more modestly priced

Implies a reasonable and unpretentious price.

budget-friendly

Appeals to those looking for inexpensive options.

competitively priced

Suggests that the price is low compared to competitors.

FAQs

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

Use "less expensive" to compare the cost of two items or services. For example, "The train ticket is "less expensive" than the plane ticket".

What's a simple alternative to "less expensive"?

A simple alternative to "less expensive" is "cheaper". While both indicate a lower cost, "less expensive" may sound more formal in some contexts.

Is it correct to say "more inexpensive"?

No, "more inexpensive" is generally considered redundant. The correct phrasing is ""less expensive"" or simply ""cheaper"".

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

"Less expensive" directly compares the cost of two items, while "affordable" describes something within one's budget. Something can be "less expensive" than another option, but still not "affordable" for a particular person.