cost-effective

UK: ˌkɒst ɪˈfektɪv | US: ˌkɔːst ɪˈfektɪv

Definition

  1. adj. providing good value for the money spent; economical in terms of benefits relative to cost.

Structure
cost <expense>effective <productive>
Etymology

The word combines "cost," derived from Old French coste (expense) and Latin constare (to stand at a price), with "effective," from Latin effectivus (productive, causative). The compound emerged in the mid-20th century to describe efficiency measured against expenditure, reflecting modern business and engineering priorities. The logic hinges on balancing input (cost) and output (effectiveness).

Examples

  1. Solar panels are a cost-effective solution for long-term energy savings.

  2. The company adopted cost-effective strategies to reduce overhead.

  3. This software offers cost-effective alternatives to expensive proprietary tools.

  4. Public transportation is often more cost-effective than owning a car.

  5. The study compared cost-effective healthcare interventions across regions.