expense

[ɪkˈspɛns]

expense Definition

  • 1the cost incurred in or required for something
  • 2something on which money is spent

Using expense: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "expense" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The expense of the trip was too high for me to afford.

  • Example

    She keeps track of all her expenses in a spreadsheet.

  • Example

    The company's expenses have increased this year due to expansion.

  • Example

    I can't justify the expense of buying a new car right now.

expense Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for expense

Idioms Using expense

  • at a high cost

    Example

    The renovations were done at great expense, but the results were worth it.

  • cut expenses

    to reduce spending

    Example

    The company had to cut expenses in order to stay profitable.

  • foot the bill (for something)

    to pay for something

    Example

    I'll foot the bill for dinner tonight.

Phrases with expense

  • at someone's expense

    paid for by someone else, often used to describe a situation where someone is made fun of or embarrassed for the amusement of others

    Example

    He told a joke at my expense and everyone laughed.

  • to spend money on something that is not strictly necessary but is done to achieve a particular goal or outcome

    Example

    We went to the expense of hiring a professional photographer for the wedding.

  • to be responsible for paying for something

    Example

    The company will bear the expense of the repairs.

Origins of expense

from Old French 'espense', from Latin 'expensa', meaning 'disbursement'

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Summary: expense in Brief

The term 'expense' [ɪkˈspɛns] refers to the cost incurred in or required for something, such as a trip or a purchase. It can also refer to something on which money is spent, like a business expense. Phrases like 'at someone's expense' denote situations where someone is made fun of or embarrassed for the amusement of others, while 'go to the expense of doing something' implies spending money on something that is not strictly necessary but is done to achieve a particular goal or outcome.

How do native speakers use this expression?