what price

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what price" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when inquiring about the cost of something or the value of a situation. Example: "What price are you willing to pay for this opportunity?" Alternative expressions include "what cost" and "how much."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

What price the world?

The New York Times - Books

And at what price?

The New York Times - Health

But at what price?

The New York Times

For what price?

The New York Times

What price a medal?

Independent

Podolsky, entitled: "What Price Noise".

The New Yorker

What price the "reset" now?

The Economist

[Treehugger] What price Scrabulous?

The New York Times

What price a life?

The Guardian

What price Bedlam now?

The Guardian

What price rebellion?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what price" to introduce a critical evaluation of the potential downsides or sacrifices associated with a seemingly desirable outcome. It's particularly effective in highlighting ethical or moral dilemmas.

Common error

Avoid using "what price" simply as a direct substitute for "how much". The phrase implies a deeper consideration of non-monetary costs or compromises, not just a financial value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what price" functions as an interrogative phrase used to question the value, cost, or consequence of something, often implying a trade-off or sacrifice. Ludwig confirms its use in various contexts, prompting consideration of the implications beyond mere monetary value.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Encyclopedias

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what price" serves as a poignant inquiry into the true cost or consequence of an action or decision. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and widely used, especially in News & Media. It goes beyond a simple monetary question, prompting deeper reflection on ethical implications, trade-offs, and potential downsides. To ensure effective use, avoid substituting it directly for "how much" and recognize its power in highlighting critical evaluations and moral dilemmas. By understanding its nuance, writers can leverage "what price" to introduce thought-provoking questions and encourage thorough consideration of the factors at play.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

At what cost?

Focuses on the negative consequences or sacrifices made to achieve something.

What are the trade-offs?

Emphasizes the exchange of one thing for another, often implying a compromise.

What's the consequence?

Highlights the result or effect of an action or decision, particularly if it's negative.

What sacrifices are necessary?

Draws attention to the acts of giving up something valued for the sake of something else.

What's the damage?

Informal way of asking about the negative impact or cost, often financial.

What will it take?

Focuses on the resources or effort required to achieve a specific goal.

What's the expense?

Directly inquires about the financial or resource burden of something.

What is the implication?

Explores the potential future effects or consequences of a decision or action.

What is the ransom?

Implies something very valuable should be given up in order to retrieve something else.

What does it entail?

Asks about the full scope of what is involved or required.

FAQs

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

The phrase "what price" is typically used to question the cost, consequence, or sacrifice associated with a particular action or decision. For example, "what price glory?" suggests a consideration of the sacrifices made in pursuit of fame or success.

What does "what price" imply beyond monetary cost?

Beyond the literal financial cost, "what price" often implies a deeper consideration of ethical, moral, or social implications. It prompts reflection on the potential negative consequences or trade-offs involved.

Which is more appropriate, "at what price" or "what price"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "What price" is a more concise and direct phrasing, while "at what price" adds a slight emphasis on the condition or circumstances surrounding the cost. The choice depends on the desired tone and context.

What are some alternative phrases to "what price" that convey a similar meaning?

Alternatives include "at what cost", "what are the trade-offs", or "what's the consequence". These phrases similarly question the sacrifices or implications associated with a particular outcome.