B2adjectivemoney
US/ˈkɔːst.li/
UK/ˈkɒst.li/
costing a lot of money; also causing serious problems or losses
In context
Repairing an old car can be more costly than buying a new one.
Ignoring the warning was a costly mistake for the company.
Living in central Hanoi is becoming increasingly costly for young people.
Words that go with costly
adjective + noun
- costly mistakeSigning the contract without reading it was a costly mistake.
- costly repairsRegular checks can help you avoid costly repairs later.
- costly delayThe storm caused a costly delay to the bridge project.
adverb + adjective
- extremely costlyTreating cancer abroad can be extremely costly.
- increasingly costlyPrivate English classes are increasingly costly.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
This phone costs very costly.Correct: This phone is very costly. / This phone costs a lot.