What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cheap
Example
I found a cheap shirt at the thrift store. [cheap: adjective]
Example
The hotel room was cheap, but it was clean and comfortable. [cheap: adjective]
affordable
Example
This restaurant offers affordable meals without compromising on quality. [affordable: adjective]
Example
The new housing development provides affordable homes for first-time buyers. [affordable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Affordable is more commonly used than cheap in everyday language. Affordable is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while cheap is often associated with lower quality or inferiority.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cheap and affordable?
While cheap is typically used in informal settings, affordable can be employed in both formal and informal contexts. Affordable is a more neutral and widely accepted term when discussing prices in professional or business settings.
