affordable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
affordable Word Meanings
- able to be bought or obtained; reasonably priced
- within the financial reach of a person
- not too expensive
affordable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
affordable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈfɔːdəbl/
US
/əˈfɔːrtəbl/
affordable Word Etymology
afford = to provide for, able (from 'for' + 'do') + able = having the power to. Historical origin: Middle English: 'forden', from Old English 'foran'. Memory image: Imagine a person standing next to a price tag, giving a thumbs-up to show it’s within their budget.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean in and move along the rack, tracing a few options with my eyes. I pull a sweater from the hanger and set it beside a price tag I like, weighing the numbers in my head. I adjust my choices, push away the splurges, and keep the ones that feel within reach. If the total stays affordable, I place the bag in my cart and go on with a small, relieved smile.
Real Context
Affordable describes something that is reasonably priced and within most people’s budget. It emphasizes value for money rather than being the cheapest option. You might hear about affordable housing, affordable cars, or affordable groceries, often accompanied by phrases like 'within reach' or 'within your means.' In everyday English, affordable can describe both products and services, and it is common in marketing to signal accessibility without implying poor quality. Learners sometimes think affordable equals 'cheap,' which can carry a negative connotation. Remember that something affordable is not necessarily the cheapest, but it fits your financial constraints.
Usage Reminders
- Use affordable to describe price, not quality.
- Common collocations: affordable housing, affordable price, affordable groceries.
- Not the same as cheap; affordable can still imply good quality.
- Marketing context often uses affordable to signal accessibility.
- Say I cannot afford it to describe inability to pay, not low value.
Common Misconceptions
- It always means the cheapest option.
- It implies low quality.
- It can only describe physical goods, not services.
- It must be identical to cheap in tone.
- It is interchangeable with inexpensive in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, affordable is a relative price cue indicating value, not the cheapest option; learners often conflate it with 'cheap' or 'low quality' in marketing.
Learning Tips
- Learn collocations with affordable houses and groceries
- Compare with cheap/inexpensive to choose nuance
- Use in marketing contexts to signal value
- Practice 'more affordable' vs 'less affordable'
- Ask for examples with real products
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'affordable'?
A.Difficult to find
B.Expensive
C.Free
D.Moderately priced
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'affordable' used correctly?
A.The luxury car was affordable for most people.
B.The cheap shoes were not affordable for many.
C.The expensive phone was surprisingly affordable.
D.The affordable house was out of budget.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'affordable'?
A.Costly
B.Exclusive
C.Inexpensive
D.Reasonable
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context might you hear the word 'affordable'?
A.Luxury shopping mall
B.Healthcare discussion
C.Financial planning
D.Homeless shelter
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on how 'affordable' can impact daily decisions.
A.Ignoring financial constraints
B.Seeking expensive items
C.Budgeting effectively
D.Disregarding money matters
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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