outrageous prices

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outrageous prices" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe prices that are excessively high or unreasonable. Example: "Many customers were shocked by the outrageous prices at the new restaurant in town."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Tight supply translated into outrageous prices.

The Economist

All fetch what used to be considered outrageous prices.

The New York Times - Magazine

Their debts are inflated by outrageous prices for food and usurious interest rates.

The New York Times

Others point to the seemingly outrageous prices sometimes charged for the smallest room service order.

The New York Times

There are reasons beyond greed that hospitals typically charge what look like outrageous prices for goods and services.

The New York Times - Health

To extend or repair the wall, the official complains, they must buy from the firm at outrageous prices.

The Economist

But Russian pipelines should not be used to exert pressure on countries, or to force them to pay outrageous prices.

The Economist

But many people complained that other businesses were price gouging, selling food, batteries and candles at outrageous prices.

The New York Times

Still, we are being squeezed to the breaking point by outrageous prices for the electricity we buy.

The New York Times

There it was, all in one place: outrageous prices for a tiny slice of a scarce commodity.

The Guardian - Business

The real question is, why do people pay outrageous prices for dreck, on the field and in the concession stands?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "outrageous prices", consider the audience and context. In formal writing, "exorbitant costs" might be more appropriate, while in casual conversation, "rip-off prices" could be more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "outrageous prices" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for alternatives like "unjustifiable prices" or "excessive charges" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outrageous prices" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "outrageous" modifies the noun "prices". It describes prices that are considered shockingly high or unfair. Ludwig AI confirms this is a standard and usable expression as exemplified in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "outrageous prices" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe prices that are considered shockingly high or unfair. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common usage. Its primary function is to express disapproval or criticism, often evoking a sense of injustice. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to consider the audience and context, opting for more formal alternatives like "exorbitant costs" in professional settings. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources, reflecting its relevance in discussions about consumer affairs and economic issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exorbitant costs

Replaces "prices" with "costs" and uses "exorbitant" for a more formal tone.

excessive charges

Substitutes both words for alternatives emphasizing the unfairness of the cost.

unreasonable fees

Uses "fees" instead of "prices", suggesting services rendered, and "unreasonable" to soften the intensity.

sky-high rates

Employs a more informal and vivid description of the price level.

inflated costs

Suggests that the prices have been artificially increased.

astronomical prices

Uses a hyperbole to emphasize the extreme nature of the prices.

highway robbery

An idiomatic expression indicating extreme overpricing.

rip-off prices

An informal term implying that the prices are a form of exploitation.

unjustifiable prices

Focuses on the lack of a reasonable basis for the price.

unconscionable prices

Highlights the ethical problem with such high prices.

FAQs

How can I use "outrageous prices" in a sentence?

You can use "outrageous prices" to describe goods or services that are priced much higher than what is considered reasonable. For example, "Consumers complained about the "outrageous prices" for bottled water during the concert."

What can I say instead of "outrageous prices"?

Alternatives to "outrageous prices" include "exorbitant costs", "excessive charges", or "unreasonable fees". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Which is correct, "outrageous prices" or "outrageous price"?

"Outrageous prices" (plural) is generally used when referring to a general condition or a range of items. "Outrageous price" (singular) is appropriate when referring to the cost of a single item. For example, "The "outrageous prices" at the stadium made it impossible for families to attend" versus "The outrageous price of that dress is prohibitive."

What's the difference between "outrageous prices" and "high prices"?

"High prices" simply indicates that the cost is elevated. "Outrageous prices" implies that the prices are not only high but also shockingly unfair or unreasonable. The term adds a layer of moral judgment and surprise. Using "outrageous prices" expresses a stronger negative sentiment than "high prices".