cost - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cost Word Meanings
- the amount of money required for something
- the sacrifice or effort required to achieve something
- to require a payment or expenditure
cost Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cost Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kɒst/
US
/kɔst/
cost Word Etymology
cost: from Old French 'coste', from Latin 'costa' meaning 'side', 'rib', suggesting the burden of expenses; visualize a heavy burden being carried on a person's back.
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
Start by reaching into your pocket and move your fingers to the coins or card. The weight shifts as a price tag catches your eye, and you adjust your grip on the wallet. When you decide to buy, the number in your mind becomes real, a mix of need and choice. That moment of choosing what to spend is the living sense of cost.
Real Context
Cost is the amount of money required to obtain something, but it also captures the effort, time, and trade-offs involved. In everyday speech we talk about the cost of groceries, but we also speak of the cost of waiting for a service or the cost of making a difficult decision. As a verb, cost means to require payment or to entail a certain expenditure. Learners should distinguish between cost as a noun (the price) and verb (to demand money or resources). Common phrases include "high cost," "costs a lot," and "at no cost" (meaning free). Thinking about opportunity cost helps explain why choices matter beyond their price.
Usage Reminders
- Distinguish cost (noun) from cost (verb).
- Ask whether you mean the price or the burden.
- Note collocations: cost of, costs a lot, at no cost.
- Compare cost with price and with expense.
- Think about opportunity cost when making choices.
Common Misconceptions
- Cost = price; they are interchangeable
- Cost only refers to money, not time or effort
- Costs always decrease over time
- Cost applies only to goods, not services
- The verb cost and the noun costs are the same form
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Think of cost as the overall burden, not just the price.
- Use 'costs' with plural subjects (the costs are).
- Pair with 'of' to specify what costs: the cost of doing business.
- Differentiate 'cost' from 'price' to talk about time/effort.
- Use 'at no cost' or 'free of charge' for zero expense.
- Consider opportunity cost in decisions.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'cost'?
A.Unlimited
B.Fast and speedy
C.High in value
D.Price paid for something
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is the word 'cost' used correctly?
A.I cost my friend yesterday.
B.The cost of the dress was too low.
C.She cost the movie tickets.
D.The cost of living is getting higher.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is most similar to 'cost'?
A.Waste
B.Free
C.Expense
D.Gain
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'cost'?
A.Save
B.Cheap
C.Earn
D.Invest
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where understanding the concept of 'cost' would be important?
A.Calculating monthly expenses
B.Reading a novel
C.Learning a new language
D.Playing video games
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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