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What is the Meaning of “Pricey”?

Pricey
/ˈpraɪsi/

Something is pricey when it costs lots of cash. It's informal—use in chats, not essays.

Definition of Pricey

Quick Meaning of Pricey

Something is pricey when it costs lots of cash. It's informal—use in chats, not essays.

Detailed Definition of Pricey

costing a lot of money

How to Pronounce Pricey

IPA: /ˈpraɪsi/
pri cey

Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).

Tip: Rhymes with 'icy'. Stress first syllable: PRAI-see.

Full pronunciation guide for “pricey” →

Origin and Etymology of Pricey

How to Use Pricey in a Sentence

Each example shows “pricey” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “That restaurant is very pricey.”
    A2 daily
  • “The hotel was nice but pricey.”
    A2 conversation
  • “Designer clothes are often pricey.”
    B1 daily

Synonyms and Antonyms of Pricey

Common Synonyms for Pricey

Smart Synonyms for Pricey — When to Use Each

expensive
formal version
costly
more serious tone
dear
British alternative

Antonyms of Pricey

See all synonyms for “pricey” →

Common Collocations with Pricey

These phrases pair with “pricey” in everyday English:

  • pricey item
  • pricey restaurant
  • quite pricey

Common Mistakes When Using Pricey

Even fluent speakers slip up with “pricey”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong:
✓ Correct: Use 'expensive' in formal contexts.
✗ Wrong:
✓ Correct: The correct spelling is 'pricey'.

Words Confused With Pricey

  • Pricey vs Expensive: 'Expensive' is neutral/formal; 'pricey' is informal.

Other Forms of Pricey

Frequently Asked Questions About Pricey

What is the meaning of "Pricey"?

Something is pricey when it costs lots of cash. It's informal—use in chats, not essays.

How do you pronounce "Pricey"?

The IPA is /ˈpraɪsi/. Rhymes with 'icy'. Stress first syllable: PRAI-see.

What part of speech is "Pricey"?

"Pricey" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Pricey"?

Common synonyms include expensive, costly, dear.

How do you use "Pricey" in a sentence?

For example: "That restaurant is very pricey."

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