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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
what about costs
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"What about costs?" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask someone for more information about a cost-related issue. For example, if you are deciding who will pay for a planned gathering, you might ask, "What about costs? Who is willing to cover them?".
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
What about cost?
News & Media
So, what about cost?
News & Media
But what about cost savings for other industries?
News & Media
But what about housing costs?
News & Media
What about food costs at Southwest?
News & Media
What about the costs of letting the tax cuts expire?
News & Media
What about labour costs, or competition with cars and planes?
News & Media
What about the costs of technical support and teacher training?
News & Media
What about burial costs?' I mean, you have to think this all through.
News & Media
A bit of moonlighting is a relatively easy way for universities to keep some of their smarter faculty happy.What about the costs of this moonlighting?
News & Media
I don't doubt the rewards of re-education, but what about the costs of a system that would provide such a seeming luxury?
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "what about costs?", be specific about the context to ensure clarity. For example, follow up with clarifying questions like, "What about costs, who will cover them?"
Common error
Avoid focusing solely on initial expenses. When asking "what about costs?", remember to include long-term maintenance, potential risks, and unexpected expenditures for a comprehensive financial view.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "what about costs" functions primarily as an interrogative phrase, used to introduce the topic of expenses or financial considerations in a discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a correct and usable way to ask about cost-related issues. Examples from Ludwig show it used in contexts ranging from project planning to evaluating different options.
Frequent in
News & Media
60%
Science
20%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "what about costs" is a grammatically correct and frequently used question to introduce the topic of financial considerations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across different contexts. It functions to prompt a discussion or explanation of expenses, funding, and potential budgetary concerns. While generally neutral in register, it is more commonly found in news and media than in formal or scientific settings. Remember to be specific when using this phrase to ensure clarity and avoid overlooking hidden expenses. Consider alternatives like "what are the financial implications?" for more formal situations.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
what is the price tag
Direct way of asking the price.
what are the expenses involved
Focuses on expenses related to a project, activity, or product
what is the cost implication
Focuses specifically on the consequences or effects related to costs, often in a business or formal setting.
what are the cost projections
Focuses on estimated costs for future projects, implying anticipation.
what are the financial considerations
Broader approach, encompassing all financial aspects, not just immediate costs.
what is the financial burden
Focuses on the weight or difficulty imposed by the cost.
how much will it set us back
An informal way of asking about the cost, implying a potential burden or expense.
what's the damage
Informal way of asking the price, implying a potentially unwanted expense.
what are the monetary aspects
Broader, more formal approach, encompassing all monetary facets, not just costs.
can we afford it
Directly questions the ability to pay for something, centering on affordability.
FAQs
How can I use "what about costs" in a sentence?
You can use "what about costs" to introduce a question about expenses, such as "We've discussed the benefits, but "what about costs"? How will we fund this project?"
What's a more formal alternative to "what about costs"?
In a formal setting, consider using "what are the financial implications?" or "what are the projected expenses?" These phrases provide a more professional tone while addressing financial concerns.
Is it grammatically correct to say "what about costs"?
Yes, "what about costs" is grammatically correct. It's a common way to inquire about the financial aspects of a situation.
What kind of response does "what about costs?" typically elicit?
The question "what about costs?" usually prompts a discussion or explanation of the expenses involved, funding sources, or potential cost-saving measures.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested