Cheaply Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cheaply

[หˆtสƒiหpli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

cost

Inexpensively; at a low cost.

Synonyms

affordably, economically, inexpensively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cheaply

Utilize 'cheaply' when referring to something low-cost but possibly at the expense of quality. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • The shoes were made cheaply and fell apart after just one month.
  • He decorated the room cheaply, using little expense or effort.
inexpensively

Employ 'inexpensively' to describe something that doesn't cost a lot of money. It has a neutral connotation and doesnโ€™t imply poor quality.

  • You can find good quality clothes inexpensively if you shop during sales.
  • They managed to repair the car inexpensively.
affordably

The word 'affordably' is used when something is priced within a range that people can afford without much financial strain. It suggests a balance between cost and quality.

  • The local grocery store offers organic produce affordably.
  • They found a way to travel affordably by booking tickets in advance.
economically

Use 'economically' when discussing actions or choices made with care to save resources, particularly money. It implies smart spending.

  • She managed to furnish her apartment economically by shopping at thrift stores.
  • Driving a hybrid car allows you to travel more economically.

Examples of usage

  • He found a way to travel cheaply.
  • She bought the dress cheaply on sale.
Context #2 | Adverb

quality

In a way that reflects poor quality or low value.

Synonyms

inferiorly, poorly, shoddily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cheaply

Use this word when you want to describe something done at a low cost or for a low price, often implying it lacks quality.

  • We decorated the room cheaply by using discount decorations
  • The book was made cheaply and fell apart within days
poorly

Use this word to describe something done in a bad or inadequate way, often implying negative consequences or dissatisfaction.

  • The essay was written poorly, with many grammatical errors
  • She performed poorly in the competition due to lack of practice
shoddily

Use this word to describe something done or made carelessly and of low quality, giving a strong negative connotation.

  • The repairs were done shoddily and fell apart soon after
  • Customers complained about the shoddily built furniture
inferiorly

Use this word to describe something done or made in a lower quality or lesser standard compared to something else.

  • The product was made inferiorly compared to its competitors
  • He performed inferiorly in the test because he didn't study

Examples of usage

  • The product was made cheaply and broke easily.
  • He performed the task cheaply, resulting in a subpar outcome.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • Buying things cheaply often means opting for lower quality or outdated items, which can lead to a trade-off between cost and longevity.
  • Consumer behavior studies reveal that people often associate cheaper products with lower quality, impacting purchasing decisions.
  • Sales, discounts, and promotions are marketing strategies designed to encourage buyers to purchase items cheaply.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, spending cheaply can be seen either positively (as smart) or negatively (as frugal or stingy).
  • Various societies have different values pertaining to luxury; some emphasize living modestly and choosing cheap options.
  • In certain traditions, using resources cheaply is viewed as a virtue, encouraging sustainability over wasteful spending.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'scarcity' plays a significant role in why people buy cheaply; when something is perceived as limited, its attractiveness increases.
  • Cognitive Dissonance can occur when someone regrets a cheap purchase they made, leading them to question their spending habits.
  • People often feel a sense of gratification when they successfully buy something cheaply, linking low prices to feelings of accomplishment.

Pop Culture

  • The idea of 'cheap' is often found humorously in films and television, where characters are shown scrimping and saving in eccentric ways.
  • Fashion trends occasionally embrace the 'thrift store chic' look, promoting the idea of finding stylish items cheaply.
  • Reality shows built around bargain hunting highlight the thrill and excitement of scoring deals on luxurious items for less.

Origin of 'cheaply'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cheap' comes from the Old English 'ceap,' meaning 'bargain' or 'trade.'
  • Historically, 'cheap' used to also mean 'noble' or 'of low birth,' reflecting value judgments in society.
  • The suffix '-ly' indicates how something is done, making 'cheaply' describe the manner of spending money.

The word 'cheaply' originates from the Middle English word 'cheep' meaning 'price, bargain'. Over time, it evolved to represent the concept of being of low cost or value. The adverb form 'cheaply' first appeared in the English language in the 16th century.


See also: cheap, cheapen, cheapness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,615, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.