be cheap

/biː tʃiːp/
verb phraseBeginner
informal

To cost little money; to be inexpensive or affordable.

This store sells clothes that are cheap and stylish.

This store sells clothes that are inexpensive and fashionable.

The hotel was surprisingly cheap for such a prime location.

The hotel was surprisingly affordable for such a prime location.

💡

The phrase 'be cheap' is commonly used to describe something that costs little money. It can also be used to describe something that is of low quality or value.

Collocations

be cheapto cost little moneycheap and cheerfulinexpensive and pleasant

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

cheap and cheerfulphrase
inexpensive and pleasant
cheapskatephrase
a person who is unwilling to spend money

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The phrase 'be cheap' can have different connotations depending on the context. In some cases, it can be positive, describing something that is affordable. In other cases, it can be negative, describing something that is of low quality or value.

Gold Rule

Avoid Negative Connotations

When describing something as 'cheap,' be aware of the potential negative connotations. In some contexts, it may be better to use a more neutral term like 'inexpensive' or 'affordable.'

📖Word Origin

The word 'cheap' comes from Old English 'cēap,' meaning 'a bargain, a purchase, or a price.' The phrase 'be cheap' is a straightforward combination of the verb 'to be' and the adjective 'cheap.'

📝Usage Notes

The phrase 'be cheap' is commonly used in informal contexts to describe something that costs little money. It can also be used to describe something that is of low quality or value. In some contexts, it can have a negative connotation, implying that something is of poor quality or value.

Word Breakdown

be
to exist or occur
verb
+
cheap
costing little money
adjective
English Dictionary