virtually free

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "virtually free" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is almost free, implying that there may be minimal costs or conditions involved. Example: "The software is virtually free, with only a small fee for premium features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This despite it being virtually free.

The Economist

It's free, or virtually free".

The New York Times

And the media have given him a virtually free ride.

The New York Times

Their pecan trees are virtually free of shuckworm larvae.

The New York Times

Best butter aside, rhubarb crumble used to be virtually free.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Israelis have got used to a life virtually free of suicide bombers.

The Economist

Health care, education and housing, once provided virtually free to most city dwellers, are now costly.

The Economist

In return for virtually free oil, Cuba provided Venezuela with thousands of doctors and sports trainers.

The Economist

Cuba receives around 100,000 barrels a day of virtually free Venezuelan oil.

The Economist

Design dates from the days when energy was virtually free, so huge amounts are simply wasted.

The Economist

During the campaign, however, the tabloids were virtually free of negative stories about him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "virtually free", ensure the context clarifies what minimal costs or conditions might still apply. This avoids misleading the audience.

Common error

Avoid implying something is completely without cost when it only applies under specific circumstances. Instead, provide specific details about what, if any, minimal costs are associated with the offering.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "virtually free" primarily functions as a modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, describing a noun. It suggests that something is available at very little or no cost, though not necessarily entirely without expense. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely understood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "virtually free" is a common and acceptable phrase used to describe something that is nearly, but not entirely, free of cost. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely understood. While its register is generally neutral, its high frequency in news and business contexts indicates its usefulness in conveying value and affordability. The phrase is a good alternative to expressions such as "nearly free" or "almost free".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly free

Indicates a cost that is extremely low, almost to the point of being free.

almost free

Suggests a very low cost, close to having no cost associated.

practically free

Emphasizes the idea that for all practical purposes, it doesn't cost anything.

effectively free

Highlights that the actual cost is so negligible that it might as well be free.

at no cost

Stresses the absence of a direct payment or expense.

free of charge

Formally indicates that there is no monetary payment required.

without payment

Emphasizes that no money is exchanged for the item or service.

at a nominal cost

Highlights that the cost is so low it is hardly worth considering.

available gratis

A more formal way of saying something is offered freely.

complimentary

Implies that the item or service is offered as a courtesy or gift.

FAQs

How can I use "virtually free" in a sentence?

You can use "virtually free" to describe something that has a minimal cost or condition associated with it, for example: "The software is "virtually free", with only a small fee for premium features."

What are some alternatives to "virtually free"?

Alternatives include "nearly free", "almost free", or "practically free", which all suggest a very low or negligible cost.

Is it accurate to say something is "virtually free" if there are hidden costs?

While "virtually free" implies a very low cost, it's best to be transparent about any associated expenses. If there are substantial hidden costs, it's more accurate to describe the offer as "low cost" or "discounted" while mentioning the additional expenses.

What's the difference between "virtually free" and "completely free"?

"Virtually free" means there might be a small cost or condition, while "completely free" implies absolutely no cost or condition. Use "virtually free" when there's a minor expense, and "completely free" when there is no expense at all.