small price

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small price" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is inexpensive or that the cost is low compared to the value received. Example: "For such a high-quality product, it's a small price to pay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A small price to pay.

The New York Times

But it's a small price to pay.

The Guardian - Music

"And a small price to pay".

The Guardian - Books

"It's a small price for freedom".

The New York Times

("A small price to pay," Tucker says).

The New Yorker

But this is small price to pay.

The New York Times

It's a small price to pay.

The New York Times - Books

A small price for the hub of our community.

The Guardian - Books

Interestingly enough, I find that a small price to pay.

The New York Times

But that incongruity is a small price to pay.

The Economist

But that's a small price for such driving fun.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "small price", ensure the context clearly indicates what the price is small compared to. This provides better clarity and impact to your writing. For example, "Investing in quality education is a small price to pay for a brighter future."

Common error

While "small price" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Variety in phrasing makes your writing more engaging. Consider using alternatives like "reasonable fee" or "modest charge" to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small price" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "small" modifies the noun "price". As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe something whose cost is considered low or acceptable in relation to its value or the benefits it provides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

12%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "small price" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey that something is worth the expense. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it's particularly effective in contexts where the cost is justified by the value or benefit received. Predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse communication scenarios. When using "small price", clarity is key; ensure the comparison point is evident to maximize impact. While frequently employed, consider synonyms such as "low cost" or "reasonable fee" to enhance the richness and appeal of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

low cost

Simple and direct synonym for "small price".

reasonable fee

Focuses on the affordability of the cost.

modest charge

Emphasizes the low amount of money required.

affordable sum

Highlights that the amount is within reach.

minimal expense

Directly refers to the low financial outlay.

slight payment

Indicates a relatively low amount to pay.

cheap investment

Implies that the initial cost is low relative to potential benefits.

minor outlay

Stresses the insignificance of the expenditure.

fair compensation

Suggests the price is just and equitable.

insignificant amount

Highlights that the sum is not worth worrying about.

FAQs

How can I use "small price" in a sentence?

You can use "small price" to suggest that something is worth the cost. For example, "The initial investment is a "small price" to pay for long-term benefits".

What can I say instead of "small price"?

You can use alternatives like "low cost", "modest charge", or "reasonable fee" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "small price to pay"?

Yes, the phrase "small price to pay" is grammatically correct. It's a common idiom used to express that something is worth the cost or effort involved.

What is the difference between "small price" and "cheap"?

"Small price" typically implies that the cost is low relative to the value or benefit received. "Cheap" can sometimes have a negative connotation, suggesting low quality. Therefore, "small price" is often used to emphasize the worthiness of the cost, while "cheap" focuses solely on the monetary value.