not exactly cheap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not exactly cheap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is somewhat expensive, but not prohibitively so, often implying a degree of surprise or disappointment regarding the cost. Example: "While the restaurant has great reviews, the prices are not exactly cheap for a casual dining experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

And it's not exactly cheap at $40.

The New York Times

Not exactly cheap or practical, but just delicious.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not exactly cheap, but you won't need a Wall Street bonus to try them.

The New York Times - Food

It's priced well enough to make it not exactly cheap but certainly affordable.

The New York Times - Food

Markdowns are prominently featured, but the stuff is not exactly cheap.

The New York Times - Magazine

At 50 Barbadian dollars a person, it's not exactly cheap, but it's a terrific value.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The price is not exactly cheap--$150--but park service officials say the money is needed to buy a five- to six-foot-tall tree grown in a nursery for several years.

Los Angeles Times

Such fun isn't exactly cheap.

The New York Times

But forget the pennies: the new products featuring it aren't exactly cheap.

The New York Times

Writing out his full name on gig posters took too long, and Sharpie markers aren't exactly cheap.

The New Yorker

But not even one Michelin-starred restaurant -- much less three -- can survive in a vacuum, and the food served in Ludlow's constellation isn't exactly cheap.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not exactly cheap" when you want to convey that something is more expensive than expected, but still potentially within reach. It's useful for softening the blow of a high price.

Common error

Avoid using "not exactly cheap" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms or describing the cost in more detail to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not exactly cheap" functions as an adverbial modifier clarifying the degree of cost. It suggests something is more expensive than desired or anticipated, but stops short of labeling it outright "expensive". Ludwig AI shows its function in context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not exactly cheap" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that is pricier than desired or expected. According to Ludwig AI, this expression is mostly used in News & Media contexts. While it stops short of calling something outright "expensive", it sets a realistic expectation. When using this phrase, consider whether more direct language or describing the cost in more detail would be more effective. Alternative phrases such as "somewhat pricey" or "relatively expensive" can provide similar nuance. With a high expert rating and numerous examples across reputable sources, the analysis indicates that "not exactly cheap" remains a solid and reliable choice for describing price.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat pricey

Indicates a moderate level of expensiveness, differing by using a more direct adjective.

relatively expensive

Highlights the cost in comparison to other items, using more formal vocabulary.

a bit on the expensive side

Emphasizes that the cost is noticeable, using a more descriptive and casual tone.

not particularly affordable

Focuses on the affordability aspect, rather than direct cost.

costly to some extent

Highlights that there are costs associated with it, but does not say how significant they are.

moderately priced

Suggests a price that is neither low nor high, focusing on the balance.

not a bargain

Implies the item isn't offered at a notably discounted price.

more than reasonable

Indicates that the price is high, not highlighting the reasons why.

carries a premium price

Emphasizes the high quality or exclusivity justifies the higher cost.

quite an investment

Highlights the long-term value and significant expenditure.

FAQs

What does "not exactly cheap" mean?

The phrase "not exactly cheap" means that something is somewhat expensive, more than one might expect or prefer, but perhaps not prohibitively so. It implies a degree of surprise or disappointment regarding the price.

How can I use "not exactly cheap" in a sentence?

You can use "not exactly cheap" to describe the price of a product or service, such as: "While the quality is excellent, the materials are "somewhat pricey"." or "The location is perfect, but rent is "relatively expensive"."

What are some alternatives to saying "not exactly cheap"?

Some alternatives to "not exactly cheap" include "somewhat pricey", "relatively expensive", "a bit on the expensive side", or "not particularly affordable". Choose the phrase that best fits the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "not exactly cheap" or "expensive"?

Whether to use "not exactly cheap" or "expensive" depends on the context. "Expensive" is a direct statement about the cost. "Not exactly cheap" implies a more nuanced perspective, suggesting it's pricier than desired or anticipated, but potentially still manageable. The choice depends on the desired impact and accuracy.