cost-effective

American  

[kawst-i-fek-tiv, kost-] / ˈkɔst ɪˈfɛk tɪv, ˈkɒst- /

adjective

1. producing optimum results for the expenditure.

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cost-effective British  

adjective

1. providing adequate financial return in relation to outlay

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Other Word Forms

• cost-effectively adverb
• cost-effectiveness noun

Compare meaning

How does cost-effective compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• cost-effective vs. cost-efficient

Example Sentences

Over the past year, more companies that develop and operate AI have shown interest in Google’s TPUs, seeking to tap more cost-effective computing power and avoid excessive dependence on Nvidia.

From The Wall Street Journal

Chancellor Rachel Reeves had been under growing pressure to remove the cap, with Labour MPs and charities arguing this is the most cost-effective way to reduce child poverty.

From BBC

Although placing cables underground is a fire prevention measure, consumer advocates point out it’s not the most cost-effective step Edison can take to reduce the risk.

From Los Angeles Times

Glasgow MSP Paul Sweeney, who is interested in industrial heritage, is working to bring together the various crane owners to explore more cost-effective ways of maintaining them.

From BBC

Apollo was geopolitically driven; now the U.S. is presumably more project-driven, toward a permanent, productive and cost-effective presence on the moon.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• practical
• profitable
• worthwhile