Costly is an adjective that refers to something that incurs a high cost or expense. It describes an item or a situation that requires a significant amount of money, resources, or effort to obtain or maintain. The term frequently denotes an expensive or lavish quality, directly implying that the monetary value associated with the subject is substantial.
In terms of monetary usage, costly can describe an item, service, or event that involves a considerable financial expenditure. For instance, it can refer to expensive luxury goods, extravagant vacations, or high-end restaurants. Additionally, the term can characterize the high price of a service, such as healthcare or legal assistance, reflecting the substantial remuneration required for professional expertise.
Beyond finances, costly can relate to non-monetary implications as well. It can encompass the expenditure of effort, time, or resources required for achieving a particular goal or objective. This definition can be applied in various domains, ranging from relationships to personal endeavors or professional projects. For instance, initiating and maintaining a long-distance relationship might be considered costly due to the effort and sacrifices involved. Similarly, completing a labor-intensive research project or climbing a challenging mountain can be deemed costly endeavors due to their demanding nature.
Overall, the term costly denotes a significant, often burdensome, expenditure, whether it pertains to financial, temporal, or resource-related implications. Its usage highlights the weight and impact of the associated costs on individuals, organizations, or situations.
