Cheap: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe something low in cost but often implies poor quality. Can have a negative connotation.

• The shirt was very cheap, but it fell apart after one wash.
• He bought a cheap phone and it broke within a week.

Used in a more neutral way to describe something that does not cost a lot of money without implying low quality.

• The meal at the restaurant was surprisingly inexpensive.
• They bought inexpensive decorations for the party.

Used to describe something reasonably priced that offers good value for the cost. Neutral to positive connotation.

• The store has a wide range of affordable clothes.
• They found an affordable apartment in a nice neighborhood.

Used to describe something that saves money in the long run or offers good value for the price. Often used for items that are cost-effective and efficient.

• This car is very economical; it gets great mileage.
• Using public transport is more economical than driving every day.

Used to describe something that costs little money. It can have a negative connotation when referring to quality.

• This shirt was cheap, but it fell apart after one wash
• The hotel was cheap, but it wasn't clean

Used to describe something that has low quality compared to others, often implying it is not as good.

• These shoes are inferior to the brand-name ones
• The new product was inferior and didn't sell well

Used to describe something that does not meet the usual standards or requirements and is often officially unacceptable.

• The building was closed due to substandard safety conditions
• The workers were using substandard equipment, which posed a risk

Used to directly state that something is of poor quality, without necessarily comparing it to other items.

• The low-quality fabric ripped easily
• The company received complaints about the low-quality materials they used

Used to describe something that costs little money, often implying lower quality. Can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• The shirt was cheap, but it fell apart after just one wash
• Some people prefer to buy cheap groceries to save money

Used to describe something that can be obtained or done at a low cost without a strong implication about its quality.

• She managed to decorate her house quite inexpensively
• They found an inexpensively priced restaurant for lunch

Used to describe something that is efficient and cost-effective, often in relation to overall expenses or resource usage.

• It is more economically viable to buy in bulk
• The car runs economically and saves on fuel consumption

Used to describe something that is reasonably priced and within most people's budget. Often used in marketing to highlight good value for money.

• The event was affordably priced, making it accessible to everyone
• They are looking for affordably priced homes in the neighborhood