The phrase "cost nothing" is a common expression used to describe something that is free of charge. In phonetic transcription, the word "cost" is spelled as /kɒst/, with the "o" pronounced as the vowel sound in "lot". "Nothing" is spelled as /ˈnʌθɪŋ/, with the "u" pronounced as the vowel sound in "bus". When said together, the phrase is pronounced as /kɒst ˈnʌθɪŋ/. This phrase is often used by businesses to indicate that certain services or products are provided without charge.
The phrase "cost nothing" refers to an absence of monetary expenditure or a lack of required payment for a particular item, service, or action. When something "costs nothing," it indicates that no financial burden or expense is incurred in obtaining or engaging with it. It suggests that the item or action in question can be acquired or experienced without the need for exchanging currency or providing any form of economic compensation.
This phrase commonly implies that the object or activity at hand is offered for free. It emphasizes that no money needs to be spent to obtain or enjoy it, thus making it accessible to individuals without requiring any financial resources. The concept of "cost nothing" can be applied to various aspects of life, such as events, promotions, giveaways, products, and services that are generously made available without any charge.
Moreover, the notion of something "costing nothing" can extend beyond its monetary connotation. It can also imply minimal effort, time, or resources required to achieve a particular outcome. For instance, when the phrase is metaphorically used, it suggests that engaging in the described action or obtaining the desired result entails little or no tangible or intangible sacrifices. In essence, "cost nothing" represents an economical and hassle-free opportunity or experience that can be obtained without any financial burden or significant investment of resources.
The phrase "cost nothing" consists of two words: "cost" and "nothing". Their etymology is as follows:1. "Cost": The word "cost" can be traced back to the Old French word "coste", meaning "cost, expense, outlay", which derived from the Latin word "constare", meaning "to stand at, to cost". The Latin term was a combination of "com-" (meaning "together") and "stare" (meaning "to stand"). Over time, the word "cost" evolved to encompass the concept of price or expenditure.2. "Nothing": The word "nothing" has its roots in the Old English term "nān þing", where "nān" meant "not any" and "þing" denoted a "thing". The combination referred to the absence or lack of a thing, the absence of value, or insignificance.