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A2 adjective #49 最常用 12分钟阅读

cheap

前49

开始练习例句笔记与提示 cheap 30秒了解

解析 cheap in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'cheap' is one of the first adjectives you learn to describe prices. It is very simple: it means something costs a small amount of money. For example, if a burger is $1, it is cheap. If a burger is $50, it is expensive. At this level, you use 'cheap' to talk about everyday things like food, clothes, and bus tickets. You might say, 'This pen is cheap' or 'I want a cheap phone.' You don't need to worry about the negative meanings yet. Just focus on using it as the opposite of 'expensive.' It is a very useful word when you are shopping or traveling in an English-speaking country. You can use it to ask for things that fit your budget. Remember that 'cheap' usually comes before the noun, like 'cheap bread,' or after the verb 'is,' like 'The bread is cheap.' It is a short, easy word to remember and pronounce. Practice it by looking at prices in a store and deciding if they are cheap or expensive. This will help you build your basic vocabulary for daily life. You can also use it to describe things you like because they don't cost much. 'I like this shop because it is cheap.' This is a perfectly good sentence for an A1 learner. Don't worry about being too precise; at this level, communication is the most important thing, and 'cheap' is a clear way to talk about money.

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At the A2 level, you start to use 'cheap' in more complex ways, specifically with comparisons. You will learn the forms 'cheaper' and 'the cheapest.' This allows you to compare two things or find the best price in a group. For example, 'The blue shirt is cheaper than the red one' or 'This is the cheapest hotel in the city.' This is very important for making decisions and giving opinions. You also begin to see that 'cheap' can sometimes mean 'not very good.' If you buy a 'cheap toy' and it breaks, you understand why. You might hear people say 'It's cheap,' and you have to listen to their tone to know if they are happy about the price or unhappy about the quality. You can also start using adverbs like 'very' or 'quite' with 'cheap.' 'This restaurant is quite cheap, but the food is good.' This shows you are moving beyond simple labels and starting to describe things with more detail. You should also be careful not to call people 'cheap' at this level, as you are starting to learn that it can be an insult. Instead, focus on using it for objects and services. Practice making sentences that compare prices of different brands or stores. This will help you master the comparative and superlative forms, which are key grammar points at the A2 level. The word 'cheap' is a perfect tool for this practice because price comparison is a natural part of life.

At the B1 level, you should be aware of the social and qualitative nuances of 'cheap.' You understand that while 'cheap' can mean a good bargain, it often implies 'poor quality' or 'shoddy workmanship.' You might choose to use 'inexpensive' or 'affordable' in your writing to sound more polite or professional. For example, in a formal letter or an essay, you would write 'The company offers affordable solutions' instead of 'The company offers cheap solutions.' You also start to learn common idioms and phrases like 'dirt cheap' or 'cheap talk.' You understand that 'cheap talk' means someone is making promises they won't keep. You can use 'cheap' to describe more abstract things, like a 'cheap excuse' or a 'cheap laugh.' This shows a deeper understanding of English beyond just literal meanings. You are also more careful about using 'cheap' to describe people. You know that calling a friend 'cheap' could hurt their feelings, so you might use 'frugal' if you want to be nice, or 'stingy' if you are being intentionally critical. At B1, you are expected to handle more varied vocabulary, so try to use synonyms when appropriate. However, 'cheap' remains a very common word in spoken English, and you will hear it in many different contexts. Pay attention to how native speakers use it to convey sarcasm or disappointment. This will help you develop your listening skills and your ability to understand subtext in conversation.

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At the B2 level, you use 'cheap' with a high degree of precision and awareness of register. You understand the subtle difference between 'cheap' and its many synonyms like 'economical,' 'thrifty,' and 'budget.' You can use the word 'cheap' effectively in a variety of contexts, including business and social situations. You might discuss 'cheap labor' in a debate about globalization, or 'cheap credit' when talking about the economy. You are comfortable with the metaphorical uses of the word, such as 'cheapening an experience' or 'a cheap shot.' You know that 'cheapening' something means making it seem less valuable or respected. For example, 'The constant advertising cheapens the beauty of the landscape.' You also recognize the use of 'cheap' in cultural criticism, such as 'cheap sentimentality' in a book or film. At this level, you should be able to explain the difference between being 'frugal' and being 'cheap' in detail. You can use 'cheap' to add flavor to your descriptions, knowing exactly when it will sound like a compliment and when it will sound like a critique. Your grammar with the word should be perfect, including the correct use of 'cheaply' as an adverb in formal contexts. You are also able to identify when 'cheap' is being used ironically. Mastery at B2 means you don't just know what the word means; you know how it feels to the listener in different situations. This level of linguistic sensitivity is what allows you to engage in more complex and nuanced conversations with native speakers.

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At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated command of 'cheap' and its place in the English lexicon. You can analyze the word's etymology and how its meaning has shifted over centuries from 'trade' to 'low price' to 'low quality.' You are aware of the regional variations in its usage, such as the British 'cheap as chips.' You can use 'cheap' in complex rhetorical structures to create specific effects. For instance, you might use it to criticize a political opponent's 'cheap rhetoric' or 'cheap populism,' implying that their ideas are easy to sell but lack substance. You understand the psychological aspects of 'cheapness' and how it relates to consumer behavior and brand perception. You can write detailed reports or essays where you contrast 'low-cost strategies' with 'cheapening the brand.' You are also adept at using the word in creative writing to convey character or atmosphere. A character described as 'wearing a cheap suit and a cheaper smile' tells the reader a lot about their personality and social standing. At C1, you are not just using the word; you are playing with its connotations. You can use it to be dismissive, sarcastic, or purely descriptive, and you can switch between these modes effortlessly. You also have a wide range of high-level synonyms at your disposal, such as 'parsimonious' or 'meretricious,' which you can use to avoid 'cheap' when a more academic or literary tone is required. Your understanding of the word is deep, allowing you to appreciate its use in everything from high literature to tabloid headlines.

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At the C2 level, your mastery of 'cheap' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You can use the word to navigate the most delicate social and professional situations with ease. You understand the deep-seated cultural attitudes toward 'cheapness' in different English-speaking societies—how it relates to class, ethics, and aesthetics. You can engage in philosophical discussions about the 'cheapening of modern life' or the 'cheapness of digital information.' You are familiar with the word's use in specialized fields, such as 'cheap money' in finance or 'cheap sequencing' in genetics. You can identify and use the most obscure idioms and literary references involving the word. You are also a master of the word's tonal range. You can use 'cheap' in a way that is devastatingly insulting, hilariously ironic, or purely technical. You understand how the word interacts with other words in a sentence to create subtle shades of meaning that a lower-level learner would miss. For example, you can distinguish between a 'cheap victory' (one that was too easy) and a 'cheapened victory' (one that lost its value due to bad behavior). At this level, the word is a versatile tool in your extensive linguistic toolkit. You use it with total confidence, knowing that you can convey exactly what you want, whether you are writing a legal brief, a poetic verse, or a casual text message. Your command of 'cheap' reflects a total immersion in the English language and its myriad nuances.

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开始练习例句笔记与提示

cheap 30秒了解

Cheap primarily means low in price, serving as the direct antonym to expensive in everyday financial transactions.
It frequently implies low quality, suggesting that an item is poorly made or will not last very long.
When applied to people, it is a negative character trait meaning stingy, miserly, or unwilling to spend money.
It has many metaphorical uses, such as 'cheap talk' (insincerity) or 'cheap shots' (unfair criticisms or actions).

The word cheap is a multifaceted adjective that primarily describes something that does not cost a lot of money. However, its usage extends far beyond a simple price tag. In its most basic sense, it is the opposite of expensive. When you walk into a store and find a shirt for five dollars, you would describe that shirt as cheap. This is the objective, financial application of the word. But as language evolved, the word cheap began to carry a heavier emotional and qualitative load. It often implies that because something is low in price, it is also low in quality. This is a crucial distinction for English learners to master. If you tell a friend, 'I bought a cheap car,' they might wonder if the car is going to break down next week.

Economic Value: Refers to items that are priced below the average market rate, allowing for savings.

The street food in Bangkok is incredibly cheap and delicious.

Beyond physical objects, the word is used to describe people and their behaviors. If someone is unwilling to spend money even when they have it, or if they avoid paying their fair share, they are often called cheap. In this context, it is a negative personality trait, synonymous with stingy or miserly. Furthermore, the word can describe abstract concepts like 'cheap talk' or 'cheap shots.' A cheap shot is an unfair criticism or a literal physical blow delivered when the opponent is not looking. Cheap talk refers to promises that are easy to make but difficult or unlikely to be kept. In modern consumer culture, the word is frequently used in advertising to attract budget-conscious shoppers. You will see signs for 'cheap flights,' 'cheap eats,' and 'cheap insurance.' In these cases, the word is meant to be positive, highlighting affordability. However, in high-end fashion or luxury markets, the word is avoided because it suggests a lack of prestige.

He felt cheap after realizing he had forgotten to tip the hardworking waiter.

Qualitative Inferiority: Suggests that an object is made of poor materials or lacks durability.

That cheap plastic toy broke within five minutes of play.

Don't be so cheap; it is your turn to buy the coffee for the group.

Metaphorical Usage: Used to describe actions that are easy, low-effort, or morally questionable.

The politician made a cheap attempt to win votes by making promises he couldn't keep.

In summary, cheap is a word that requires context to be understood correctly. It can be a shopper's best friend or a person's worst insult. Understanding the nuance between 'low cost' and 'low quality' is the key to using this word effectively in English conversation and writing. It is one of the most common adjectives in the English language because money and value are universal human concerns. Whether you are bargaining at a market or critiquing a movie's special effects, 'cheap' provides a quick way to communicate a lack of investment, whether financial or creative.

Using the word cheap correctly involves understanding its grammatical function as an adjective and its comparative and superlative forms. As an adjective, it typically comes before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem.' For example, 'This is a cheap watch' (attributive) or 'This watch is cheap' (predicative). The comparative form is 'cheaper,' and the superlative form is 'the cheapest.' These are used to compare the prices of two or more items.

Comparative Form: Used to show that one item has a lower price than another specific item.

Flying on a Tuesday is usually cheaper than flying on a Friday.

When using 'cheap' to describe quality, it often appears in sentences that contrast price with durability. For instance, 'I know it was cheap, but I expected it to last longer than a week.' This sentence highlights the trade-off between cost and quality. In more advanced usage, 'cheap' can be modified by adverbs to add emphasis. 'Dirt cheap' is a common idiom meaning extremely inexpensive. 'Relatively cheap' suggests that compared to other things in its category, the price is low.

We found a dirt cheap apartment in the outskirts of the city.

Superlative Form: Used to identify the item with the lowest price in a group or category.

This is the cheapest gas station in the entire county.

In a social context, describing a person as cheap requires a subject and the verb 'to be.' 'He is cheap' or 'Stop being so cheap.' This usage is almost always critical. It can also be used as an adverb in some informal dialects, such as 'buy cheap, sell dear,' though 'cheaply' is the standard adverbial form. 'He bought the house cheap' is a common informal construction.

If you want to travel cheap, you should consider staying in hostels.

Abstract Sentences: Using 'cheap' to describe non-physical things like emotions or words.

His apology felt cheap because he repeated the same mistake the next day.

Understanding these patterns allows you to navigate both the financial and social nuances of the word. Whether you are comparing prices at a grocery store or discussing the sincerity of a friend's words, 'cheap' provides a versatile tool for expression. Remember to pay attention to the tone of the sentence; a sentence about a 'cheap meal' is usually happy, while a sentence about a 'cheap person' is usually angry or disappointed. This sensitivity to tone is what separates a basic learner from a fluent speaker.

The word cheap is ubiquitous in daily life, echoing through marketplaces, television commercials, and casual conversations. In a retail environment, you will hear it constantly. Customers ask, 'Do you have anything cheaper?' or 'Is this the cheapest model you have?' Salespeople might use the word to highlight a bargain, though they often prefer 'affordable' or 'value-priced' to avoid the negative connotations of low quality. On the news, you might hear about 'cheap oil' or 'cheap credit,' referring to macroeconomic conditions where resources are easily accessible at low interest or prices.

Marketplace Dynamics: The word is a staple of haggling and price comparison in physical and digital stores.

I managed to get these tickets cheap because I booked them six months in advance.

In social circles, 'cheap' is often whispered or said in frustration. You might hear someone complain about a 'cheap boss' who refuses to provide basic office supplies, or a 'cheap date' who insists on splitting the bill for a small coffee. In the world of entertainment, critics use 'cheap' to describe movies or shows that rely on easy tropes, bad special effects, or unearned emotional moments. A 'cheap jump scare' in a horror movie is one that doesn't require building tension, but just uses a loud noise to startle the audience.

The special effects in that old sci-fi movie look really cheap by today's standards.

Professional Settings: In business, 'cheap' can refer to low-cost production or low-quality output.

The company was criticized for using cheap labor in overseas factories.

Talk is cheap; I want to see some real action on this project.

Travel and Tourism: Budget travelers are always on the lookout for 'cheap' destinations and accommodation.

We stayed in a cheap motel on the edge of town to save money for sightseeing.

You will also encounter 'cheap' in literature and song lyrics, often used to convey a sense of worthlessness or a lack of sincerity. From 'cheap thrills' to 'cheap wine,' the word paints a picture of something that provides immediate, if shallow, satisfaction. In the digital age, 'cheap' is a high-volume search term. People search for 'cheap laptops,' 'cheap insurance,' and 'cheap wedding dresses.' It is a word that drives the global economy, representing the constant human desire to get more for less. Whether it is heard in a high-stakes boardroom or a noisy street market, the word 'cheap' is a fundamental part of how we discuss value and quality in the modern world.

One of the most frequent mistakes English learners make with the word cheap is failing to recognize its negative connotations. While in many languages the word for 'low price' is neutral, in English, calling something 'cheap' can be an accidental insult. If a friend shows you their new house and you say, 'Wow, it looks so cheap!', you are telling them it looks poorly made or ugly, not that it was a good deal. To avoid this, use 'inexpensive,' 'affordable,' or 'reasonably priced' when you want to be positive.

The Quality Trap: Assuming 'cheap' only refers to price and ignoring its implication of poor quality.

Incorrect: This is a cheap and elegant dress. (Better: This is an affordable and elegant dress.)

Another common error is using 'cheap' to describe a person's financial status rather than their behavior. You shouldn't call a poor person 'cheap.' A poor person has no money; a cheap person has money but refuses to spend it. This is a vital social distinction. Calling someone cheap is a judgment on their character, specifically their lack of generosity.

He is frugal because he saves for the future, not because he is cheap.

Grammatical Errors: Using 'more cheap' instead of 'cheaper' or 'most cheap' instead of 'cheapest.'

Incorrect: This store is more cheap than the other one. (Correct: This store is cheaper than the other one.)

That was a cheap shot! (Meaning: An unfair or unkind remark.)

Misusing Idioms: Using 'cheap' in idioms where it doesn't belong, or misunderstanding 'cheap talk.'

Don't listen to him; it's just cheap talk to get your attention.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the adverbial form. While 'cheaply' is the standard adverb ('The house was cheaply built'), 'cheap' is often used informally as an adverb ('I got it cheap'). However, in formal writing, 'cheaply' should always be used. Finally, avoid using 'cheap' to describe things that are inherently valuable but currently on sale. Instead of 'cheap diamonds,' use 'discounted diamonds' or 'diamonds at a great price.' Using 'cheap' for luxury items can make them sound like fakes or imitations. By being aware of these subtle distinctions, you can use the word 'cheap' with the precision of a native speaker, avoiding social awkwardness and ensuring your meaning is always clear.

Because the word cheap has such a strong negative bias, English offers a wide variety of alternatives that allow for more precise and often more polite communication. If you want to focus purely on the low price in a positive way, 'affordable' is your best choice. It suggests that the price is within reach for most people without implying that the product is bad. 'Inexpensive' is another neutral alternative that simply states the price is low. For business or formal contexts, 'cost-effective' or 'economical' are preferred, as they suggest efficiency and smart spending.

Affordable vs. Cheap: Affordable implies a good price for good value; cheap often implies low price for low value.

We are looking for affordable housing options in the city center.

When describing a person who is careful with money, 'frugal' or 'thrifty' are much better choices than 'cheap.' These words suggest a positive character trait—being wise and avoiding waste. On the other hand, if you want to be even more critical than 'cheap,' you might use 'stingy,' 'miserly,' or 'parsimonious.' These words emphasize a pathological or mean-spirited refusal to spend money.

The budget airline offers very few amenities but very low fares.

Quality-Focused Alternatives: Words like 'shoddy,' 'flimsy,' or 'tacky' describe the low quality that 'cheap' often implies.

The workmanship on the new cabinets was shoddy and unprofessional.

The restaurant serves high-quality food that is reasonably priced.

Slang and Informal Terms: Terms like 'dirt cheap,' 'a steal,' or 'for a song' emphasize an incredible bargain.

At only ten dollars, this vintage jacket was a steal!

In the realm of emotions and actions, instead of 'cheap,' you might use 'insincere,' 'shallow,' or 'vulgar.' A 'cheap laugh' is a 'shallow laugh.' A 'cheap trick' is a 'deceptive maneuver.' By expanding your vocabulary to include these synonyms, you can express yourself with much greater nuance. You can praise a bargain without insulting the product, and you can criticize a person's behavior without sounding repetitive. The English language is rich with ways to discuss value; 'cheap' is just the starting point. Mastering these alternatives will make your English sound more sophisticated and precise, allowing you to tailor your message to your audience and your intent perfectly.

How Formal Is It?

正式

中性

非正式

Child friendly

俚语

趣味小知识

The names of places like 'Cheapside' in London or 'Eastcheap' come from this old meaning of the word, indicating where markets were located. The word 'chapman' (an old word for a peddler or merchant) also shares this root.

发音指南

UK /tʃiːp/

US /tʃip/

Single syllable word; the stress is on the entire word.

押韵词

deep keep sleep steep weep beep heap leap

常见错误

Pronouncing it like 'ship' (short 'i' instead of long 'ee').
Adding an extra vowel sound at the end, like 'cheep-uh'.
Confusing the 'ch' sound with a 'sh' sound (saying 'sheep' instead of 'cheap').
Not fully pronouncing the final 'p' sound.
Making the 'ee' sound too short, which can change the meaning in some contexts.

难度评级

阅读 2/5

The word is easy to recognize but requires context to understand the nuance of quality vs. price.

写作 3/5

Learners must be careful not to use it in formal contexts where 'affordable' is better.

口语 2/5

Pronunciation is simple, but tone is important to avoid sounding insulting.

听力 2/5

Easily heard in daily life, especially in shopping and travel contexts.

接下来学什么

前置知识

money price buy sell cost

接下来学习

expensive affordable frugal stingy bargain

高级

parsimonious miserly economical shoddy meretricious

需要掌握的语法

One-syllable adjectives take -er and -est for comparison.

Cheap -> Cheaper -> Cheapest.

Adjectives can be used after linking verbs (be, seem, look).

This watch looks cheap.

Adverbs of manner usually end in -ly, but 'cheap' can be an informal adverb.

He bought it cheap (informal) vs. He bought it cheaply (formal).

The word 'too' can modify 'cheap' to show a negative excess.

It is too cheap to be good quality.

Adjectives come before the noun they modify.

A cheap hotel.

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按水平分级的例句

This apple is very cheap.

Cette pomme est très bon marché.

Adjective 'cheap' follows the linking verb 'is'.

I want a cheap t-shirt.

Je veux un t-shirt pas cher.

Adjective 'cheap' comes before the noun 't-shirt'.

The bus ticket is cheap.

Le ticket de bus est bon marché.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

Is the water cheap here?

L'eau est-elle bon marché ici ?

Question form using 'is' before the subject.

That shop is cheap.

Ce magasin est bon marché.

Demonstrative adjective 'That' with the adjective 'cheap'.

We found a cheap hotel.

Nous avons trouvé un hôtel bon marché.

Past tense 'found' with 'cheap' modifying 'hotel'.

Cheap food is good.

La nourriture bon marché est bonne.

General statement using 'cheap' as a subject modifier.

The pen is not cheap.

Le stylo n'est pas bon marché.

Negative form using 'is not'.

This pen is cheaper than that one.

Ce stylo est moins cher que celui-là.

Comparative form 'cheaper than'.

Where is the cheapest supermarket?

Où est le supermarché le moins cher ?

Superlative form 'the cheapest'.

I bought a cheap watch, but it broke.

J'ai acheté une montre bon marché, mais elle s'est cassée.

Contrast using 'but' to show the negative side of 'cheap'.

It is cheaper to travel by train.

C'est moins cher de voyager en train.

Impersonal 'It is' followed by the comparative 'cheaper'.

This is the cheapest way to go.

C'est le moyen le moins cher d'y aller.

Superlative 'the cheapest' modifying 'way'.

The fruit is cheaper in the morning.

Les fruits sont moins chers le matin.

Comparative 'cheaper' used with a time expression.

Is it cheaper if I buy two?

Est-ce moins cher si j'en achète deux ?

Conditional 'if' clause with the comparative 'cheaper'.

He lives in a cheap apartment.

Il vit dans un appartement bon marché.

Prepositional phrase 'in a cheap apartment'.

The materials they used were very cheap.

Les matériaux qu'ils ont utilisés étaient très bas de gamme.

Using 'cheap' to imply low quality.

I don't want to sound cheap, but can we split the bill?

Je ne veux pas avoir l'air radin, mais pouvons-nous partager l'addition ?

Using 'cheap' to describe a person's behavior (stingy).

We found some dirt cheap flights to Italy.

Nous avons trouvé des vols pour l'Italie à des prix dérisoires.

Idiomatic expression 'dirt cheap'.

The movie was full of cheap special effects.

Le film était plein d'effets spéciaux bas de gamme.

Using 'cheap' to criticize artistic quality.

It was a cheap excuse for being late.

C'était une excuse bidon pour son retard.

Metaphorical use of 'cheap' meaning insincere.

Buying a used car is usually cheaper in the long run.

Acheter une voiture d'occasion est généralement moins cher à long terme.

Comparative 'cheaper' in a complex sentence.

She felt cheap after lying to her parents.

Elle s'est sentie mal après avoir menti à ses parents.

Using 'cheap' to describe a feeling of worthlessness.

The restaurant is cheap, but the service is slow.

Le restaurant est bon marché, mais le service est lent.

Compound sentence showing a trade-off.

The politician's promises were nothing but cheap talk.

Les promesses du politicien n'étaient que des paroles en l'air.

Idiomatic phrase 'cheap talk'.

That was a cheap shot at his opponent's personal life.

C'était un coup bas contre la vie privée de son adversaire.

Idiomatic phrase 'cheap shot'.

The company relies on cheap labor to keep prices down.

L'entreprise s'appuie sur une main-d'œuvre bon marché pour maintenir les prix bas.

Collocation 'cheap labor' in a socio-economic context.

The constant scandals have cheapened the office of the presidency.

Les scandales constants ont dévalorisé la fonction présidentielle.

Verb form 'cheapened' meaning to lower in value or respect.

He's too cheap to even buy a round of drinks.

Il est trop radin pour même payer une tournée.

Using 'too cheap to' + infinitive.

The book was a cheap thriller with a predictable ending.

Le livre était un thriller bas de gamme avec une fin prévisible.

Using 'cheap' to describe a literary genre/quality.

They tried to win the game with a cheap trick.

Ils ont essayé de gagner le match avec une ruse grossière.

Noun phrase 'cheap trick'.

The hotel was cheap, but it was also quite dirty.

L'hôtel était bon marché, mais il était aussi assez sale.

Using 'cheap' and 'dirty' to create a negative description.

The proliferation of fast fashion has led to a culture of cheap, disposable clothing.

La prolifération de la fast fashion a conduit à une culture de vêtements bon marché et jetables.

Using 'cheap' in a sophisticated social critique.

The author avoids cheap sentimentality, opting instead for a raw and honest portrayal of grief.

L'auteur évite la sentimentalité facile, optant plutôt pour un portrait brut et honnête du deuil.

Abstract collocation 'cheap sentimentality'.

The central bank's policy of cheap money has fueled a housing bubble.

La politique d'argent facile de la banque centrale a alimenté une bulle immobilière.

Financial term 'cheap money' (low interest rates).

It felt like a cheap victory, given that their best players were injured.

Cela ressemblait à une victoire au rabais, étant donné que leurs meilleurs joueurs étaient blessés.

Using 'cheap victory' to describe an unearned success.

The film's reliance on cheap jump scares undermined its otherwise sophisticated plot.

Le recours du film à des sursauts faciles a sapé son intrigue par ailleurs sophistiquée.

Technical term 'cheap jump scares' in film criticism.

He made a cheap attempt to discredit her research by attacking her character.

Il a fait une tentative mesquine pour discréditer ses recherches en s'attaquant à sa personnalité.

Using 'cheap' to describe a morally low action.

The brand's move into the mass market risked cheapening its image among luxury consumers.

Le passage de la marque vers le marché de masse risquait de dévaloriser son image auprès des consommateurs de luxe.

Gerund 'cheapening' used as a direct object.

The dialogue was riddled with cheap clichés and tired jokes.

Le dialogue était truffé de clichés éculés et de blagues fatiguées.

Using 'cheap' to describe poor writing quality.

The philosopher argued that the digital age has led to the cheapening of human interaction.

Le philosophe a soutenu que l'ère numérique a conduit à la dévalorisation des interactions humaines.

Using 'cheapening' in a philosophical/sociological context.

To dismiss his arguments as mere populist rhetoric would be a cheap move.

Rejeter ses arguments comme de la simple rhétorique populiste serait un procédé facile.

Using 'cheap move' to describe a flawed logical or social tactic.

The aesthetic of the show was intentionally cheap, a postmodern nod to 1970s kitsch.

L'esthétique de l'émission était intentionnellement bas de gamme, un clin d'œil postmoderne au kitsch des années 1970.

Using 'cheap' to describe a deliberate artistic choice.

The ease of digital reproduction has made art more accessible, but some fear it has also made it cheap.

La facilité de la reproduction numérique a rendu l'art plus accessible, mais certains craignent qu'elle ne l'ait aussi dévalorisé.

Using 'cheap' to discuss the value of art in the modern world.

The company's success was built on the back of cheap, exploited labor in the global south.

Le succès de l'entreprise s'est construit sur le dos d'une main-d'œuvre bon marché et exploitée dans les pays du Sud.

Complex socio-economic usage of 'cheap'.

He felt the cheapness of his own ambition when confronted with her genuine altruism.

Il a ressenti la mesquinerie de sa propre ambition face à son altruisme sincère.

Noun 'cheapness' used to describe a moral state.

The play was a masterpiece of subverting cheap theatrical tropes.

La pièce était un chef-d'œuvre de subversion des clichés théâtraux faciles.

Using 'cheap' in high-level artistic analysis.

The currency's devaluation made the country's exports remarkably cheap on the international market.

La dévaluation de la monnaie a rendu les exportations du pays remarquablement bon marché sur le marché international.

Economic usage with the adverb 'remarkably'.

常见搭配

dirt cheap

cheap labor

cheap shot

cheap talk

cheap thrill

cheap wine

cheap flight

cheap trick

cheap imitation

cheap and cheerful

常用短语

Buy cheap, buy twice

— If you buy something of low quality because it is inexpensive, it will break and you will have to buy it again. It warns against prioritizing price over quality.

I should have bought the better boots; these ones are already leaking. Buy cheap, buy twice!

Cheap at the price

— Used to say that something is a very good bargain, even if the price seems high at first. It implies great value.

At five thousand dollars, that vintage car is cheap at the price.

Talk is cheap

— It is easy to say you will do something, but much harder to actually do it. It emphasizes action over words.

He says he'll help us move, but talk is cheap. Let's see if he actually shows up.

Cheap and nasty

— Describing something that is low in price and also very poor in quality or unpleasant. It is a strong criticism.

The hotel was cheap and nasty, with stained carpets and no hot water.

Cheap as chips

— A very common British idiom meaning extremely inexpensive. It is usually used in a positive, enthusiastic way.

I got this new phone case for two pounds—cheap as chips!

On the cheap

— Doing something without spending much money, often by using lower quality materials or methods. It can be neutral or negative.

They renovated the kitchen on the cheap, and now the cabinets are falling apart.

Cheap seat

— The least expensive seats in a theater or stadium, often with a poor view. Metaphorically, it refers to criticism from people not involved.

It's easy to criticize from the cheap seats when you aren't the one doing the work.

Cheap date

— A person who is easily satisfied with an inexpensive outing, or someone who gets drunk very quickly (informal/humorous).

She's a cheap date; she's happy with just a walk in the park and an ice cream.

Cheap and easy

— Describing a solution or method that requires little money and little effort. Often implies it might not be the best way.

There is no cheap and easy way to learn a new language; it takes time and practice.

Feel cheap

— To feel a loss of self-respect or dignity, often after doing something dishonest or being treated poorly.

He felt cheap after taking credit for his colleague's hard work.

容易混淆的词

cheap vs sheep

A common pronunciation error; 'sheep' is an animal, 'cheap' is a price.

cheap vs chip

Another pronunciation error; 'chip' is a small piece of something or a snack.

cheap vs cheep

A homophone; 'cheep' is the sound a bird makes.

习语与表达

"Cheap shot"

— An unfair or unkind remark or action directed at someone who is vulnerable. It comes from sports where a player is hit unfairly.

Mentioning her divorce during the business meeting was a real cheap shot.

informal

"Talk is cheap"

— Actions are more important than words; it is easy to make promises but harder to keep them.

You keep saying you'll quit smoking, but talk is cheap.

neutral

"Cheap at half the price"

— A humorous (and often misused) way to say something is a great bargain. The logical phrase is 'cheap at twice the price.'

A brand new laptop for $200? That's cheap at half the price!

informal/humorous

"Cheap thrills"

— Excitement or pleasure that is easily obtained, often through shallow or slightly dangerous activities.

He spends his weekends looking for cheap thrills at the local amusement park.

neutral

"Cheap and cheerful"

— Inexpensive but pleasant and of reasonable quality. Very common in British English.

We went to a cheap and cheerful Italian place for dinner.

informal

"A cheap drunk"

— Someone who becomes intoxicated after drinking only a small amount of alcohol.

I'm a cheap drunk; one glass of wine and I'm ready for bed.

informal/slang

"Cheap as dirt"

— Extremely inexpensive; so low in price that it is almost free.

In that country, the local produce is as cheap as dirt.

informal

"Cheapen oneself"

— To behave in a way that makes people lose respect for you; to lower your own dignity.

Don't cheapen yourself by arguing with people who just want to fight.

formal

"Cheap grace"

— A theological or philosophical term for forgiveness or acceptance that requires no change or effort from the person receiving it.

The politician's apology was a form of cheap grace, as he didn't change his policies.

academic/literary

"Get off cheap"

— To escape a situation with less punishment, cost, or trouble than was expected.

He got off cheap with just a small fine for such a serious accident.

informal

容易混淆

cheap vs inexpensive

Both mean low price.

'Inexpensive' is neutral and polite, while 'cheap' can imply low quality or stinginess.

This is an inexpensive gift (polite) vs. This is a cheap gift (insulting).

cheap vs frugal

Both relate to spending little money.

'Frugal' is a positive trait (being careful/wise), while 'cheap' is a negative trait (being stingy).

She is frugal with her savings vs. He is too cheap to pay for dinner.

cheap vs affordable

Both mean you can pay for it.

'Affordable' suggests good value for the price; 'cheap' just means the price is low.

We need affordable housing vs. They built cheap houses.

cheap vs economical

Both relate to saving money.

'Economical' refers to efficiency and long-term savings (like a car's fuel), while 'cheap' is just the initial price.

An economical engine vs. A cheap engine.

cheap vs stingy

Both describe people who don't spend money.

'Stingy' is more direct and always negative; 'cheap' can also refer to prices.

A stingy old man vs. A cheap price.

句型

Subject + is + cheap.

The bread is cheap.

Noun + is + cheaper than + Noun.

This bag is cheaper than that one.

It is + cheaper + to + verb.

It is cheaper to cook at home.

Subject + is + too cheap to + verb.

He is too cheap to buy a car.

The + noun + cheapens + the + noun.

The scandal cheapens the award.

Adverb + cheap + noun.

Remarkably cheap labor.

The + cheapest + noun + in + place.

The cheapest hotel in town.

Verb + something + cheap.

I bought this phone cheap.

词族

名词

动词

形容词

如何使用

frequency

Very high; one of the top 2000 words in English.

常见错误

Using 'more cheap' instead of 'cheaper'. → This phone is cheaper than that one.
Cheap is a one-syllable adjective, so it must use the '-er' ending for comparisons.
Calling a person 'cheap' when you mean they are 'poor'. → He doesn't have much money.
'Cheap' refers to a choice not to spend money, not a lack of money itself. Calling a poor person 'cheap' is incorrect and insensitive.
Using 'cheap' to describe a luxury item on sale. → I got a great deal on this designer bag.
Calling a luxury item 'cheap' can imply it is a fake. Use 'on sale' or 'at a great price' instead.
Confusing 'cheap' with 'sheep'. → I saw a sheep in the field. / This shirt is cheap.
The 'ch' sound in 'cheap' is different from the 'sh' sound in 'sheep.' This is a common pronunciation error.
Using 'cheap' in a formal business report. → The project is cost-effective.
In formal writing, 'cheap' has a negative connotation of low quality. 'Cost-effective' or 'economical' are better choices.

小贴士

Choose Your Words Carefully

If you are writing a review for a restaurant you liked, use 'affordable' or 'reasonably priced.' If you use 'cheap,' people might think the food was bad quality.

The Long 'E' is Key

Make sure to stretch out the 'ee' sound. If you say it too quickly, it might sound like 'chip,' which is a different word entirely.

Comparative Forms

Always use 'cheaper,' never 'more cheap.' One-syllable adjectives always take the '-er' suffix for comparisons.

Describing People

To be nice about someone who saves money, use 'frugal.' To be mean, use 'cheap' or 'stingy.' To be neutral, use 'economical.'

Use 'Dirt Cheap' for Emphasis

In casual conversation, 'dirt cheap' sounds much more natural and expressive than 'very cheap' when you find a great deal.

Avoid 'Cheap' in Proposals

In a professional setting, 'cheap' sounds unprofessional. Use 'cost-effective,' 'low-cost,' or 'competitive pricing' instead.

British English Tip

If you are in the UK, 'cheap as chips' is a very friendly and common way to describe a bargain. It will make you sound very fluent!

The 'Cheap' vs. 'Frugal' Distinction

A frugal person buys a high-quality coat on sale. A cheap person buys a low-quality coat because it's the lowest price. Learn this difference to understand English speakers better.

Adverb Usage

In formal writing, use 'cheaply' (e.g., 'The product was cheaply manufactured'). In informal speech, you can use 'cheap' as an adverb (e.g., 'I got it cheap').

Tone Matters

When you hear 'cheap,' listen to the speaker's voice. A happy tone means 'good price'; a flat or angry tone means 'bad quality' or 'stingy.'

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'Cheap Jeep.' If a Jeep is too cheap, it might be broken. This helps you remember both the price and the quality meanings.

视觉联想

Imagine a bright yellow price tag with a very low number, but the tag is attached to a toy that is already falling apart.

Word Web

Price Quality Stingy Bargain Inexpensive Shoddy Affordable Value

挑战

Try to use 'cheap' in three different ways today: once for a price, once for quality, and once in an idiom like 'talk is cheap.'

词源

The word 'cheap' comes from the Old English word 'ceap,' which meant 'trade,' 'buying and selling,' or 'a bargain.' It is related to the German word 'Kauf' (purchase) and the Dutch 'koop.' In medieval times, 'good cheap' meant a good bargain, and eventually, the 'good' was dropped, leaving 'cheap' to mean low-priced.

原始含义： Trade, marketplace, or a bargain.

Germanic

文化背景

Never use 'cheap' to describe a person's socioeconomic status; it is only for their choices and behavior regarding money.

In the US and UK, 'cheap' is commonly used in advertising, but luxury brands avoid it completely, preferring 'exclusive' or 'premium.'

The song 'Cheap Thrills' by Sia. The band 'Cheap Trick.' The phrase 'Cheap at half the price' often appears in British comedy.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Shopping

Is there a cheaper one?
That's a cheap price.
Where are the cheap clothes?
It's too cheap to be real.

Travel

Cheap flights to Paris.
A cheap place to stay.
Is the bus cheap?
The cheapest way to travel.

Personal Character

He is so cheap.
Don't be cheap!
A cheapskate friend.
Being cheap with tips.

Quality Criticism

It looks cheap.
Made of cheap plastic.
A cheap imitation.
Cheap workmanship.

Metaphorical/Idioms

That was a cheap shot.
Talk is cheap.
Cheap thrills.
Feel cheap.

对话开场白

"Do you usually look for the cheapest option when you go grocery shopping?"

"What is the best 'dirt cheap' item you have ever bought?"

"Do you think 'cheap' always means 'bad quality'?"

"Is it better to be frugal or is it okay to be a little cheap sometimes?"

"Have you ever felt cheap after doing something?"

日记主题

Describe a time you bought something cheap and it broke immediately. What did you learn?

Write about a person you know who is very 'cheap.' How does their behavior affect others?

In your opinion, what are some things that should never be 'cheap'?

Reflect on the phrase 'Talk is cheap.' Give an example from your own life.

Compare the words 'cheap' and 'affordable.' How do they change the meaning of a sentence?

常见问题

10 个问题

No, 'cheap' is not always bad. When you are talking about prices, like 'cheap flights' or 'cheap fruit,' it is usually positive because it means you are saving money. However, when you use it to describe quality or a person's character, it is usually negative.

'Inexpensive' is a more formal and neutral word. It just means the price is low. 'Cheap' can mean the price is low, but it often also means the quality is low. If you want to be polite, use 'inexpensive.'

You should be very careful. Calling a friend 'cheap' is usually an insult. It means they are stingy and don't like to spend money on others. If you want to say they are good with money, use the word 'frugal' instead.

'Dirt cheap' is an idiom that means something is extremely inexpensive, almost as if it costs nothing. It is a very common way to emphasize a great bargain in casual conversation.

Because 'cheap' has one syllable, you add '-er' to compare two things ('This is cheaper than that') and '-est' to compare three or more things ('This is the cheapest one in the shop').

A 'cheap shot' is an idiom for an unfair or mean comment, especially one directed at someone who cannot easily defend themselves. It can also mean an illegal physical hit in sports.

Yes, 'cheaply' is the adverb form of 'cheap.' You use it to describe how something was made or done. For example, 'The house was cheaply built' means it was built using low-quality materials and methods.

This means that it is easy to say you will do something, but it is much more important to actually do it. It is often said when someone makes a promise that you don't think they will keep.

No, 'cheap' is not a verb. However, the word 'cheapen' is a verb. It means to make something seem less valuable or less respected. For example, 'Lying will only cheapen your reputation.'

A 'cheapskate' is a noun that describes a person who is extremely unwilling to spend money. It is an informal and usually insulting term for someone who is very stingy.

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