expensive
/ɛkˈspɛnsɪv/
Expensive is an adjective used to describe something that has a very high price. It is generally used in a neutral or negative way, implying that the cost is a disadvantage or a barrier. It can also be used to describe something that is lavish or luxurious, not just in terms of money but also in terms of effort or resources required. Be aware that what is considered 'expensive' can vary greatly depending on context, location, and individual financial situations.
💬Casual Conversation
Did you really get that new gaming chair? It's pretty expensive.
Yeah, dude. Worth every penny for the upgrade.
Collocations & Compounds
expensive tastes
A preference for high-quality, luxurious, or costly items or experiences.
He has expensive tastes that his salary can barely support.
expensive habit
A recurring activity or behavior that costs a lot of money.
Collecting antique cars became an expensive habit for him.
expensive mistake
An error in judgment or action that results in significant financial loss.
Not buying insurance turned out to be an expensive mistake.
expensive equipment
Tools, machinery, or devices that are costly to purchase or maintain.
The research lab requires very expensive equipment.
expensive jewelry
Ornamental items made from precious metals and stones that are costly.
She received a necklace with expensive jewelry as a gift.
Cultural Context
The Expensive Art of Deception: Why We Fall for Fakes
We often associate the word 'expensive' with quality, authenticity, and desirability. This is precisely why the market for counterfeit goods thrives, preying on our desire for the genuine article, even if it comes at a fraction of the price.
From designer handbags and luxury watches to fine art and even pharmaceuticals, the world of fakes is vast and remarkably sophisticated. The psychological allure is powerful: owning something perceived as expensive signals status, taste, and success. Counterfeiters exploit this by creating visually convincing replicas, often using cheaper materials but mimicking the branding and aesthetic that consumers crave.
Consider the art world. A forged painting attributed to a master can fetch millions, not because of its intrinsic artistic merit, but because of the perceived value attached to the artist's name and the provenance (history of ownership). Authentication experts employ advanced scientific techniques – infrared spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, pigment analysis – to distinguish real from fake, yet determined forgers constantly evolve their methods.
This phenomenon isn't limited to tangible goods. In social interactions, 'expensive' signaling can be seen in conspicuous consumption – the ostentatious display of wealth designed to impress others. It’s a form of social deception, where the appearance of wealth is prioritized over actual financial stability. The desire to be perceived as having access to the 'expensive' and exclusive can lead individuals to make poor financial decisions or engage in deceptive practices themselves.
Ultimately, the enduring appeal of the fake is a testament to the powerful psychological link between cost and perceived value. We want to believe that if something is expensive, it must be good, rare, and worth having. This makes us vulnerable, but also highlights our innate human desire for aspiration and the symbols that represent it.
Etymology
The word 'expensive' comes from the Latin word 'expendere', meaning 'to weigh out' or 'to spend'. It entered English in the 15th century, initially referring to something that caused a great expenditure or cost. Over time, it evolved to describe things that are high in price or value, requiring a significant amount of money to obtain.