Expensive is a widely-used term to describe something that comes with a high price tag. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, an avid language learner, or simply curious about different cultures, knowing how to express the concept of “expensive” in other languages can be both useful and fascinating. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “expensive” in different languages, including formal and informal expressions, along with some tips, examples, and regional variations.
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1. Saying “Expensive” in Spanish:
Spanish is one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world, and knowing how to say “expensive” in Spanish can come in handy during your travels to Spain or various Latin American countries. Here are a few expressions you can use:
- Formal: Caro/Caro (Literally: Costly)
- Informal: Caro/Cara
Example: Compré un abrigo muy caro en la tienda de lujo. (I bought a very expensive coat at the luxury store.)
2. Saying “Expensive” in French:
French is often regarded as the language of love and elegance. It’s no surprise that it also has its own unique way to express something as pricey. Below are the formal and informal words for “expensive” in French:
- Formal: Cher/Chère (Masculine/Feminine)
- Informal: Coûteux/Coûteuse (Masculine/Feminine)
Example: Les bijoux qu’elle porte sont très chers. (The jewelry she wears is very expensive.)
3. Saying “Expensive” in German:
German, known for its precise grammar rules, has its own way of conveying the notion of “expensive.” Take a look at the following expressions in German:
- Formal: Teuer/Teure (Masculine/Feminine)
- Informal: Teuer/Teuere
Example: Das Restaurant ist teuer, aber das Essen ist fantastisch. (The restaurant is expensive, but the food is fantastic.)
4. Saying “Expensive” in Italian:
Italian, the language of art and music, adds a touch of elegance when it comes to expressing “expensive.” Here are the formal and informal terms you can use in Italian:
- Formal: Costoso/Costosa
- Informal: Caro/Cara
Example: Questo vestito è davvero costoso! (This dress is really expensive!)
5. Saying “Expensive” in Mandarin Chinese:
Mandarin Chinese, one of the most widely spoken languages globally, has its own unique word for “expensive.” Here is how you can express it formally and informally in Mandarin Chinese:
- Formal/Informal: 贵 (Guì)
Example: 这个手表真贵！(This watch is really expensive!)
6. Saying “Expensive” in Japanese:
Japanese, known for its rich culture and politeness, has various ways to describe something as expensive. Here is a common formal and informal word for “expensive” in Japanese:
- Formal/Informal: 高い (Takai)
Example: このレストランは高いですが、食べ物はおいしいです。(This restaurant is expensive, but the food is delicious.)
7. Saying “Expensive” in Russian:
Russian, a language renowned for its richness and complexity, also has its own term for “expensive.” Here is how you can express it formally and informally in Russian:
- Formal/Informal: Дорогой (Dorogoy)
Example: Эти наушники очень дорогие. (These headphones are very expensive.)
These are just a few examples of how different languages convey the concept of “expensive.” It’s important to note that expressions might vary within regions, so always be open to learning regional variations if you plan on traveling or immersing yourself in a specific culture. Happy language learning!
