expenditure - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
expenditure Word Meanings
- the action of spending funds
- an amount of money spent
- the total cost incurred by an organization
expenditure Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
expenditure Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪkˈspɛndɪtʃər/
US
/ɪkˈspɛndɪtʃər/
expenditure Word Etymology
ex- = out + pend = hang/spend. From Latin 'expendere' meaning 'to weigh out' or 'to pay out'. Imagine pulling out money from your wallet and weighing it against your planned expenses.
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 grip a receipt and move it across the desk, watching the numbers slide into place. I push the total forward in my mind, then adjust the calculator so the amount I spent lines up with the screen. The effort tightens my focus, a small turn of the wrist and a breath held as I decide how to record it. That sense of tending the numbers stays with me when I drop expenditure into a budget or a report.
Real Context
Expenditure is a formal accounting term for money spent, referring to the act of spending, the amount spent, and the total cost incurred by an organization over a given period. It is used in budgeting, financial reports, and policy discussions to distinguish spending from income or revenue. Learners often confuse expenditure with expense, or with cost, and may misjudge whether to treat it as a singular outlay or as multiple line items. In practice, expenditure emphasizes the aggregate, often planned outlays, including both operating and capital costs, rather than everyday purchases.
Usage Reminders
- Use expenditure in formal writing; differentiate from expense and cost.
- Expenditure can be singular or plural (an expenditure vs. expenditures).
- Mention capital expenditure vs. operating expenditure when talking about budgets.
- Pair with prepositions: expenditure on + N, expenditure for + N.
- Think of it as total outlays over a period, not a single purchase.
- Check whether you mean the outlay itself or the amount spent.
Common Misconceptions
- Expenditure is the same as expense.
- Expenditure only refers to cash paid, not commitments or future outlays.
- Expenditure is only used for governments or big organizations.
- Expenditure always means a large amount.
- Expenditure and revenue are interchangeable terms.
Thinking Differences
Expenditure is a formal term used in budgets and financial statements. Learners should note that it refers to total outlays, not everyday purchases, and that it can be singular or plural (expenditure vs expenditures).
Learning Tips
- Learn the difference between expenditure and expense in formal writing.
- Remember capital expenditure vs operating expenditure as distinct categories.
- Use expenditures when talking about total outlays for a project.
- Be aware that expenditures can be singular or plural.
- Pair with on/for when specifying what the expenditure is for.
- Review budget documents to see real-world usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'expenditure'?
A.Income
B.Profit
C.Expense
D.Savings
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following is a correct example of the word 'expenditure' in a sentence?
A.The company decided to reduce its expenditure.
B.Her savings are growing due to her expenditure.
C.He ignored his expenditure when managing finances.
D.She earned a lot, so her expenditure increased.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'expenditure'?
A.Income
B.Outflow
C.alance
D.Reserve
Step 4: Opposite Words
In a business context, how does 'expenditure' play a role?
A.Increasing profits
B.Reducing costs
C.Managing expenses
D.Handling investments
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a daily life situation where 'expenditure' is a concern?
A.Meditating for relaxation
B.Learning a new skill
C.Planning a vacation budget
D.Reading a novel
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App