§ Understanding the Verb "Cost"
The verb "cost" is quite straightforward in its meaning: it tells us how much money we need to pay for something. It's a very common and useful word, especially when we talk about shopping, prices, and budgets. Even at the A1 CEFR level, understanding and using "cost" correctly is essential for basic communication about everyday transactions.
- DEFINITION
- To have a specific price or require a certain amount of money to be paid for purchase. It describes the financial value required to acquire a good or service.
One interesting thing about the verb "cost" is that it's an irregular verb. This means its past tense and past participle forms are not made by adding "-ed." Instead, all three forms (present, past, and past participle) are the same: "cost."
§ Basic Sentence Structure with "Cost"
The most common way to use "cost" is with a subject (the item being bought) and an object (the price). The structure is usually:
- [Subject (thing)] + cost(s) + [Price]
Let's look at some examples:
The book costs ten dollars.
How much does this apple cost?
Notice in the second example, when asking a question, we use "does" and the base form of the verb "cost" (without the 's').
§ Using "Cost" with Plural Subjects
When the subject is plural (more than one item), we use "cost" without the 's' at the end, just like with "I," "you," "we," and "they" in the present tense.
These shoes cost fifty euros.
The tickets cost a lot of money.
§ "Cost" in the Past Tense
As mentioned, the past tense of "cost" is also "cost." This applies to both singular and plural subjects.
The meal cost twenty dollars yesterday.
My new phone cost a lot, but I like it.
To make a past tense question, we use "did" and the base form "cost":
How much did your trip cost?
§ Common Phrases and Prepositions with "Cost"
While "cost" itself doesn't always need a preposition right after it when stating a price, it can appear with prepositions in related phrases. However, for A1 level, the direct usage is most important.
Here are some common ways you'll hear and use "cost":
- How much does it cost? (The most common question)
- It costs [amount]. (The most common answer)
- It costs too much! (Expressing something is expensive)
- It doesn't cost much. (Expressing something is inexpensive)
How much does this coffee cost?
It costs three pounds.
§ Practical Application
Think about what you buy every day. How much do those things cost? Practice asking and answering questions about prices. This will help you become more comfortable with the verb "cost" in real-life situations.
- Shopping: Asking prices in a shop.
- Planning: Talking about how much a trip or activity will cost.
- Comparing: Discussing if one item costs more or less than another.
This car costs more than that bike.
By practicing these simple sentences and questions, you'll master the verb "cost" quickly and effectively for your A1 English needs.
관용어 및 표현
"at all costs"
Whatever it takes; no matter how much effort or expense is involved.
We need to finish this project on time at all costs.
neutral"cost an arm and a leg"
To be very expensive.
That new car must have cost him an arm and a leg.
informal"cost a fortune"
To be extremely expensive.
Their wedding cost a fortune, but it was beautiful.
neutral"count the cost"
To consider the negative consequences or sacrifices involved before doing something.
Before expanding the business, we need to count the cost of such a large investment.
neutral"cost the earth"
To be very expensive (similar to 'cost an arm and a leg').
Flying first class costs the earth, but it's so comfortable.
informal"what's the cost?"
A direct question asking for the price of something.
I'd like to buy this book. What's the cost?
neutral"to cost dearly"
To result in severe negative consequences or loss.
Their mistake in the election will cost them dearly in terms of public trust.
formal"cost-effective"
Providing good value for the amount of money spent; economical.
Using solar panels proved to be a very cost-effective solution for heating the water.
neutral"cost of living"
The level of prices relating to a range of everyday items and services.
The cost of living has risen significantly in recent years.
neutral"cost-benefit analysis"
A systematic process for calculating and comparing the benefits and costs of a project or decision.
The company conducted a thorough cost-benefit analysis before launching the new product.
formal자주 묻는 질문
10 질문While often used interchangeably, 'cost' generally refers to the expense incurred by the seller to produce or acquire an item, whereas 'price' is the amount a buyer pays for it. For example, it might cost a company $5 to make a shirt, but they might price it at $20 for the customer.
Yes, absolutely! While 'cost' most often refers to money, it can also be used to describe non-monetary sacrifices. For instance, 'This decision cost me a lot of time and effort,' or 'His mistake cost him his job.'
You can say, 'How much does this car cost?' or 'What does this shirt cost?' You can also use it with 'it': 'How much does it cost to fly to London?'
No, 'cost' can also be a noun! As a noun, it refers to the amount of money needed for something. For example, 'The cost of living is very high in this city.' However, in this definition, we are focusing on its use as a verb.
This is a great question! The verb 'cost' is irregular. The past tense and past participle forms are the same as the base form: 'cost.' So, 'It costs $10 today,' and 'It cost $10 yesterday.'
You use 'costs' when the subject is singular (he, she, it, or a single noun), like 'The book costs $15.' You use 'cost' when the subject is plural (we, they, or plural nouns) or 'I' or 'you,' like 'These books cost $30' or 'I cost you nothing.'
Yes! You can say, 'This watch costs a lot of money,' to mean it's expensive, or 'This meal costs very little,' to mean it's cheap.
The phrase 'at all costs' means 'no matter what difficulties or dangers are involved.' For example, 'We must finish this project by Friday, at all costs.'
Absolutely! This is a very common way to use 'cost.' The structure is 'It cost [person] [amount of money].' So, 'The ticket cost me $20.'
Yes, 'cost' is a very common and essential word for A1 level learners! It's fundamental for talking about shopping, prices, and everyday transactions. You'll encounter it frequently.
셀프 테스트 36 질문
This is a common question to ask about price.
This sentence tells the price of the shirt.
This sentence says the price will be high.
How much does this book ___?
The auxiliary verb 'does' requires the base form of the main verb 'cost'.
These shoes ___ too much money.
For a plural subject like 'shoes', the verb 'cost' remains in its base form in the present simple tense.
A small coffee ___ about two dollars.
For a singular subject like 'a small coffee', the verb 'cost' takes an '-s' in the present simple tense.
The past tense of 'cost' is 'costed'.
The verb 'cost' is irregular; its past tense is 'cost', not 'costed'.
If something costs a lot, it is expensive.
To 'cost a lot' means to require a large amount of money, which is the definition of expensive.
The word 'cost' can only be used as a noun.
The word 'cost' can be used as both a noun (e.g., 'the cost of living') and a verb (e.g., 'it costs too much').
The new car will ___ you a lot of money.
To 'cost' means to have a specific price or require a certain amount of money. 'Price' is the amount, 'spend' means to pay out money, and 'value' is worth.
How much does it ___ to fly to Paris?
We use 'cost' to ask about the price of something. 'Charge' is what a person or company asks for. 'Pay' is what you do with money. 'Require' means to need something.
This repair will ___ me at least 200 dollars.
The repair will 'cost' money. 'Take' implies time or effort, 'make' means to create, and 'have' means to possess.
What did your new laptop ___ you?
'Cost' is the correct verb to ask about the price of an item. 'Worth' is a noun referring to value, 'buy' is the action of purchasing, and 'afford' means to have enough money for something.
Eating out every day can ___ a lot of money.
Eating out frequently will 'cost' a significant amount of money. 'Save' means to keep money, 'earn' means to gain money through work, and 'borrow' means to take money with the intention of returning it.
The cheap flights sometimes ___ extra for luggage.
A cheap flight might 'cost' extra for additional services like luggage. 'Sell' means to give something in exchange for money, 'offer' means to present, and 'provide' means to supply.
The new car will ___ you a lot of money.
'Cost' is the correct verb to use when referring to the price of something. 'Price' is usually a noun, 'spend' refers to the act of giving money, and 'value' is what something is worth.
How much does it ___ to fly to London?
When asking about the price of something, 'cost' is the appropriate verb. 'Pay' is what you do, 'charge' is what a seller does, and 'earn' is to receive money for work.
This meal will ___ an arm and a leg, but it's worth it!
The idiom 'cost an arm and a leg' means to be very expensive. 'Cost' is the verb used in this expression. 'Expense' is a noun, 'afford' means to have enough money for, and 'require' means to need something.
If something costs a lot, it means it is cheap.
If something 'costs a lot,' it means it is expensive, not cheap.
The word 'cost' can be used to describe the price you pay for something.
The definition of 'cost' (verb) is to have a specific price or require a certain amount of money to be paid for purchase.
It will cost me five dollars to buy this coffee.
This sentence correctly uses 'cost' to indicate the price of the coffee.
The sentence describes the high price of the car.
This is a question asking about the price of the dress.
The sentence indicates that the repair was very expensive.
Imagine you are planning a special event, like a birthday party or a small gathering. Describe what factors would influence the total cost of the event and how you would try to keep expenses down without compromising quality. Mention at least three specific cost-saving strategies.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Planning a special event, such as a birthday party for my best friend, would involve considering several cost factors. The venue rental would undoubtedly be a significant expense, along with catering services, decorations, and entertainment. To keep expenses down without compromising quality, I would first set a strict budget and prioritize what's most important. For example, instead of a fancy catering service, I might opt for a potluck style where guests bring a dish, which is more cost-effective and personal. Secondly, I'd explore DIY decorations and invitations to save on professional services. Finally, I would actively negotiate with vendors for the best prices and look for package deals that offer better value for money. This way, I can ensure a memorable event without overspending.
You are advising a friend who is starting a small online business. What advice would you give them about managing initial startup costs and ensuring the business is profitable in the long run? Focus on how carefully considering costs can lead to success.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
When advising a friend starting an online business, I'd emphasize the critical role of managing initial startup costs. It's vital to differentiate between essential investments and unnecessary expenditures. For instance, they should prioritize a functional website and reliable marketing over overly luxurious branding in the beginning. Conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis for every potential expense is crucial to maximize their startup capital. To ensure long-term profitability, they must constantly monitor their overheads and seek cost-effective solutions for operations like shipping and inventory. Regularly reviewing their pricing strategy to maintain a healthy profit margin while remaining competitive will also be key. By being financially prudent from the outset, they can build a sustainable and successful business.
Write a short paragraph explaining the difference between the 'cost of living' and 'living expenses.' Provide an example for each to illustrate your point clearly.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The 'cost of living' refers to the total amount of money needed to maintain a certain standard of living in a particular place, encompassing broad categories like housing, food, transportation, and healthcare, often influenced by economic factors and inflation. For example, the high cost of living in major cities like London or New York means that basic necessities consume a larger portion of income. On the other hand, 'living expenses' are the specific, individual costs incurred by a person or household to cover their daily needs and wants. This includes both essential outlays like rent and groceries, as well as discretionary spending such as dining out or entertainment. For instance, my living expenses last month included my rent, utility bills, a weekly grocery shop, and a few cinema tickets.
According to the passage, what is a potential disadvantage of outsourcing for businesses?
Read this passage:
In the modern economic landscape, businesses are constantly seeking ways to reduce operational costs without sacrificing quality or efficiency. One common strategy involves outsourcing certain functions, such as customer service or manufacturing, to countries where labor and production expenses are significantly lower. While this can lead to substantial savings, companies must also consider potential hidden costs, including communication challenges, logistical complexities, and the impact on local employment. A careful cost-benefit analysis is therefore essential before implementing such changes.
According to the passage, what is a potential disadvantage of outsourcing for businesses?
The passage explicitly mentions 'potential hidden costs, including communication challenges, logistical complexities, and the impact on local employment' as disadvantages of outsourcing.
The passage explicitly mentions 'potential hidden costs, including communication challenges, logistical complexities, and the impact on local employment' as disadvantages of outsourcing.
What is highlighted as a crucial step for prospective students considering higher education?
Read this passage:
The decision to pursue higher education often involves a significant financial commitment. Tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and daily living expenses all contribute to the overall cost. While scholarships and student loans can alleviate some of this burden, prospective students are encouraged to research thoroughly and understand the long-term financial implications. Investing in education can yield substantial returns in terms of career opportunities and earning potential, but it requires careful financial planning to manage the immediate costs.
What is highlighted as a crucial step for prospective students considering higher education?
The passage states, 'prospective students are encouraged to research thoroughly and understand the long-term financial implications' of higher education.
The passage states, 'prospective students are encouraged to research thoroughly and understand the long-term financial implications' of higher education.
What is often provided to help mitigate the initial financial cost of environmental initiatives?
Read this passage:
Many environmental initiatives, while beneficial for the planet, often come with an initial financial cost. Implementing renewable energy systems, for example, can be expensive upfront, even if they lead to significant savings on utility bills in the long run. Governments and organizations frequently offer incentives, such as tax credits or grants, to help offset these initial costs and encourage wider adoption of sustainable practices. The challenge lies in balancing the immediate economic impact with the long-term environmental and financial benefits.
What is often provided to help mitigate the initial financial cost of environmental initiatives?
The passage mentions that 'Governments and organizations frequently offer incentives, such as tax credits or grants, to help offset these initial costs.'
The passage mentions that 'Governments and organizations frequently offer incentives, such as tax credits or grants, to help offset these initial costs.'
/ 36 correct
Perfect score!
예시
I cost every day.
관련 콘텐츠
맥락에서 배우기
관련 표현
Business 관련 단어
market
A1시장은 사람들이 상품, 종종 음식이나 수공예품을 사고팔기 위해 모이는 특정 장소입니다. 특정 제품을 구매하려는 사람들의 그룹 또는 일반적인 무역 시스템을 지칭할 수도 있습니다.
macrocapant
C1A macrocapant is a large-scale participant or influential agent within a complex system, such as an economy or a social hierarchy. It refers to an entity whose actions and presence have significant, systemic effects rather than just individual consequences.
synmercdom
C1Synmercdom은 여러 주체가 협력하여 시장에 대한 통제권을 공동으로 행사하는 경제적 상태를 의미합니다.
contramercence
C1Describing a state or quality of being actively resistant to commercialization or financial profit. It refers to actions or philosophies that prioritize ethical, artistic, or personal values over the accumulation of wealth or market-driven incentives.
sell
A1To give something to someone in exchange for money. This action is the primary process in trade and business where ownership of a product or service is transferred for a specific price.
administrate
B2To manage, supervise, or oversee the operations and activities of an organization, program, or system. It involves the practical execution of policies and the organization of resources to achieve specific goals.
trader
A1A trader is a person whose job is to buy and sell goods, stocks, or other items for profit. They can work in a small local market or on large international financial exchanges.
franchise
B2유명 회사의 이름과 상품을 사용해서 사업을 할 수 있도록 허락받고 돈을 내는 사업 형태를 말해요.
contract
C1계약은 두 당사자 사이의 법적 구속력이 있는 약속입니다. 서로 지켜야 할 의무와 조건을 명확하게 정해두는 것이죠.
institution
C1은행이나 대학처럼 확립된 조직, 또는 오래된 관습을 뜻해요.
