sound bargain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sound bargain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deal or agreement that is considered fair, reasonable, or advantageous. Example: "After comparing prices, I realized that the new laptop was a sound bargain, offering great features for the price."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Most prosecutors like plea bargaining; a sound bargain means an easy victory and more time to prosecute the next serious case.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

These sound like bargain basement rates compared to some other recent sales.

The Guardian - Money

Sound like a bargain?

The New York Times

Then again, compared with a jewel-encrusted phone, it starts to sound like a bargain.

The New York Times - Tech

However, despite the fact that health cash plans sound like a bargain, there are some potential pitfalls.

The Guardian - Money

Montgomery described herself as "an explosive wrestler" and an expert practitioner of the blast-double move, which makes knee-buckling sound like a bargain.

The New Yorker

If his foals perform well once they start racing in 2016, that amount could triple.On the surface, £100,000 might sound like a bargain.

The Economist

The best value in headphones I've heard this year — maybe ever — came from the Grado SR 80i, which provides detailed and balanced sound at a bargain basement $100.

The New York Times

A $4,000 apartment may not sound like a bargain -- especially to a tenant paying next to nothing for a rent-stabilized palace.

The New York Times

That might make E85 sound like a bargain, but cars go fewer miles on a gallon of ethanol than of gasoline.

The New York Times

"11¢ per kwh". The wording made it sound like a bargain, but it's actually one of the most expensive electricity deals in the state, according to the Maryland Public Service Commission website.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sound bargain" when you want to emphasize both the quality and the price advantage of a deal. It suggests the deal is not only cheap but also reliable and beneficial.

Common error

Avoid using "sound bargain" solely to indicate a low price. The phrase implies the deal is both inexpensive and fundamentally beneficial or sensible. Use "cheap" or "discounted" for price alone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sound bargain" functions as a noun phrase, where "sound" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "bargain". According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, indicating that it adheres to grammatical standards.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sound bargain" is a noun phrase signifying a deal that is not only inexpensive but also fundamentally advantageous. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. While its usage is relatively rare, its connotation suggests a purchase is both economical and sensible. The phrase is often found in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral register appropriate for professional communication. In essence, using "sound bargain" highlights a decision that is both financially prudent and logically justified.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

good deal

A more common and general way to describe a favorable transaction.

great value

Highlights the benefit received for the price paid.

wise investment

Focuses on the long-term benefits and potential returns.

smart buy

Emphasizes the intelligence and thoughtfulness behind the purchase.

excellent purchase

A straightforward way to express satisfaction with a buy.

favorable terms

Highlights advantageous conditions of an agreement or transaction.

advantageous deal

Stresses the beneficial nature of the transaction.

economical choice

Emphasizes cost-effectiveness and savings.

prudent acquisition

Highlights the careful consideration and wisdom of obtaining something.

valuable asset

Focuses on the worth and usefulness of the acquired item.

FAQs

How can I use "sound bargain" in a sentence?

You can use "sound bargain" to describe a deal that is both affordable and advantageous, such as: "Finding that vintage car at such a low price was a "sound bargain"."

What can I say instead of "sound bargain"?

Alternatives to "sound bargain" include "good deal", "great value", or "smart buy", depending on the context.

Is "sound bargain" formal or informal?

"Sound bargain" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although "good deal" might be preferred in very casual settings.

What makes a bargain a "sound bargain"?

A "sound bargain" isn't just about low price; it implies that the purchase is a wise and sensible decision due to the item's quality, utility, or potential long-term benefits. Therefore, a "cheap purchase" of low quality would not be a "sound bargain".