WordLens

costly

1 of 1adjective
/ˈkɔstli/
Forms:costlier,costliest
1

costing much money, often more than one is willing to pay

C1
  • The decision to renovate the kitchen was a costly undertaking.
  • Buying a house in that neighborhood would be costly due to high property prices.
  • The medical treatment for his condition was extremely costly, but necessary.
  • The repair for the car's transmission was going to be costly, so they decided to trade it in instead.
  • The university tuition fees were too costly for many students, so they sought scholarships or financial aid.
2

causing significant pain or hardship

  • The breakup was costly, leaving her heartbroken.
  • Moving abroad was a costly decision, separating him from family.
  • The argument was costly, straining their friendship.
  • The war proved to be a costly conflict, resulting in many lives lost.