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
Idioms Using expense
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.
Example
I'll foot the bill for dinner tonight.
Phrases with 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.
Example
The company will bear the expense of the repairs.
Origins of expense
from Old French 'espense', from Latin 'expensa', meaning 'disbursement'
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.
