significant cost

USAGE SUMMARY

"significant cost" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is most often used to refer to a large amount of money that is needed to pay for something important. For example, "The restoration of the old building will come with a significant cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That's a significant cost".

The New York Times

"That will come at a significant cost.

The Guardian

Energy efficiency measures in buildings offer significant cost savings.

The Guardian - Opinion

But their strategy has at come at a significant cost.

The Guardian

Cost-saving measures are in progress, but at significant cost.

The Guardian - Business

"We have a significant cost disadvantage," Mr. Arpey said.

The New York Times

One benefit of starting a play outside the city is the significant cost savings.

The New York Times

It also found significant cost savings, particularly for bulk cereals and vegetable oil.

The Guardian

The transaction also will generate significant cost savings and other efficiencies.

The Guardian - Business

"There is a significant cost to the city for sponsoring the proposal," he said.

The New York Times

But if you're in manufacturing, it can still be a significant cost".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant cost", clarify what specific aspect makes the cost significant (e.g., financial, environmental, social).

Common error

Avoid using "significant cost" when the cost is relatively minor or expected. Use a more appropriate term like "small fee" or "nominal charge" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant cost" functions as a noun phrase, where "significant" modifies the noun "cost". It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in various contexts, indicating expense or investment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "significant cost" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression to denote a considerable expense, investment, or sacrifice. According to Ludwig, it’s most frequently encountered in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. When using this phrase, it is important to consider if "significant" is an appropriate modifier for the situation, as it implies that the expense is noteworthy or consequential. Related phrases like "considerable expense" or "substantial outlay" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance desired. Its versatility and clear meaning make it a valuable term in both professional and general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable expense

Emphasizes the monetary aspect, similar to "significant cost".

substantial outlay

Focuses on the amount of money spent, comparable to "significant cost".

major expenditure

Highlights the act of spending a large sum, similar to incurring a "significant cost".

high price tag

Informal way of saying something is expensive, like a "significant cost".

notable sacrifice

Shifts focus to non-monetary costs, such as effort or resources, as an alternative to a "significant cost".

steep investment

Suggests a large amount of resources committed, similar to a "significant cost".

heavy toll

Emphasizes the negative impact beyond finances, similar to a "significant cost".

marked disadvantage

Shifts focus to a competitive or strategic downside, as an alternative to a "significant cost".

serious repercussions

Focuses on consequences, which may stem from a "significant cost", making it an alternative.

great burden

Highlights the weight or difficulty imposed, which could be similar to incurring a "significant cost".

FAQs

How can I use "significant cost" in a sentence?

You can use "significant cost" to describe a major expense or investment. For example, "The project's success hinges on managing the "significant cost" associated with new technology".

What are some alternatives to "significant cost"?

Alternatives include phrases like "considerable expense", "substantial outlay", or "major expenditure". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "significant cost" or "high cost"?

"Significant cost" emphasizes the importance or impact of the expense, while "high cost" simply indicates a large amount. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the impact or just the amount.

What does it mean when something "comes at a significant cost"?

When something "comes at a significant cost", it means achieving a particular outcome requires a substantial sacrifice, investment, or expense. This could be in terms of money, time, effort, or other resources.