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be cheap
/biː tʃiːp/
to cost little money
This store sells clothes that are cheap.
The store offers affordable clothing.
informal
to cost little money; to be inexpensive
The hotel was cheap, so we stayed there.
The hotel was affordable, so we chose it.
She bought a cheap phone online.
She purchased an inexpensive phone online.
Often used to describe products, services, or experiences that are affordable.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The phrase 'be cheap' can have both positive (affordable) and negative (low-quality) connotations depending on the context.
Gold Rule
Avoid Negative Connotations
When describing something as 'cheap,' be mindful of the context to avoid implying poor quality.
Word Origin
From Old English 'cēap' meaning 'a bargain, a purchase,' related to 'to buy.'
Usage Notes
The phrase 'be cheap' is commonly used in everyday language to describe affordability. It can also be used to describe something as low-quality or poorly made.
Word Breakdown
be
to exist in a certain state
verbcheap
costing little money
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary