What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expense
Example
The company's expenses include rent, utilities, and salaries. [expense: noun]
Example
I can't afford the expense of a new car right now. [expense: noun]
Example
It's important to factor in the expense of repairs when buying a used car. [expense: noun]
outlay
Example
The outlay for the new office building was quite substantial. [outlay: noun]
Example
The company's outlay for research and development has paid off in increased sales. [outlay: noun]
Example
We need to calculate the outlay for the entire project before we begin. [outlay: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expense is more common in everyday language, while outlay is more common in business or financial contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between expense and outlay?
Outlay is generally more formal than expense, but both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.
