affordable
uh-FAW-duh-buhl
Affordable (adj) means Priced at a level most people can reasonably pay. Example: “We looked for an affordable flat close to the train station.”
adj
1
Priced at a level most people can reasonably pay.
"We looked for an affordable flat close to the train station."
"The city needs more affordable housing for young families."
"They offer an affordable package for small businesses."
How to use affordable
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishReasonably priced — not a bargain necessarily, just within reach financially.
Common pairings
affordable housing
affordable price
affordable option
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more affordable
- Superlative
- most affordable
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
We looked for an _____ flat close to the train station.
Etymology
From afford plus the suffix -able, "able to be done."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for affordable
See all rhymes for affordable →Frequently asked questions
What does “affordable” mean?
The word “affordable” means priced at a level most people can reasonably pay. In plain terms, reasonably priced — not a bargain necessarily, just within reach financially.
How do you pronounce “affordable”?
“Affordable” is pronounced uh-FAW-duh-buhl (/əˈfɔɹ.də.bəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “affordable” in a sentence?
Here is “affordable” used in a sentence: “The city needs more affordable housing for young families.”
What is the opposite of “affordable”?
The opposite of “affordable” — its antonyms — are cheap and expensive.
What part of speech is “affordable”?
“Affordable” is an adjective.
Is “affordable” a common word?
“Affordable” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "affordable" and "cheap"?
Both suggest a low price, but "affordable" is positive and means priced at a level most people can reasonably pay, while "cheap" can imply low cost together with low quality. "Affordable" focuses on value; "cheap" can sound dismissive.
What is the difference between "affordable" and "inexpensive"?
"Inexpensive" simply states that something does not cost much, whereas "affordable" relates the price to what buyers can reasonably manage. An item that is costly overall can still be "affordable" to a wealthy buyer.
Is "affordable" a positive or negative word?
"Affordable" is generally positive. It suggests good value and accessibility, describing a price most people can comfortably pay, without implying poor quality.
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