These words, both adjectives, are almost synonyms, meaning “low cost.” When talking about prices, they can be synonyms, though cheap is often considered cheaper than inexpensive:
Computers are never really cheap, but some are relatively inexpensive.
Inexpensive can mean just as cheap as cheap, but it is more polite, since cheap can have negative connotations. Besides “low cost,” cheap can also mean “low quality”:
I want an inexpensive bicycle, but not one made from cheap materials.
More abstractly, cheap can mean “low cost” in many other ways:
That was a cheap comment for him to make; he did not have to prove anything.
It was a cheap victory; no lives were lost.
It can also describe a person who is “tight” with money, negatively:
He is so cheap that he goes to bed early in order to save money on electricity.
More Examples of How to Use "Cheap" in a Sentence
- I've been looking for some cheap products on the internet, but even the “cheap” stuff is expensive!
- “Don't get me wrong, I like clothes; I just don’t like cheap clothes.” said Martha, rather smugly.
- The price of the tickets was so cheap, they were sold out in less than an hour.
- Even though the hotel is cheap, I still can’t afford it.
- It's always important to get the best deal possible, but remember that just because something is cheap doesn’t mean that it’s actually a good deal.
- My father always said that buying cheap batteries will end up costing more.
More Examples of How to Use "Inexpensive" in a Sentence
- You can find inexpensive items at a variety of stores, such as Walmart, Target, and Kmart.
- Efficient and inexpensive, the Tubo Vacuum is a wonderful addition to any home.
- This dress is a perfect match for any occasion and is also inexpensive, making it an ideal purchase.
- The Dollar Store is my favorite place to shop for inexpensive items.
- Leo chose a new car that was inexpensive, but it has lots of nice features and high safety ratings.