What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expenditure
Example
The company's expenditure on advertising has increased this year. [expenditure: noun]
Example
We need to carefully plan our expenditure for the upcoming project. [expenditure: noun]
Example
Her monthly expenditure on groceries is quite high. [expenditure: noun]
outlay
Example
The outlay for the new construction project is estimated at $2 million. [outlay: noun]
Example
The outlay for starting a small business can be quite high. [outlay: noun]
Example
The outlay for the new computer system was significant but necessary. [outlay: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expenditure is more commonly used than outlay in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Outlay is more commonly used in formal or business contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between expenditure and outlay?
Outlay is generally considered more formal than expenditure, making it more appropriate for use in business or academic writing.