From steep (adjective) + cost (noun). The adjective steep in the sense of 'excessively high in price' is attested from around 1856 in American English slang, derived from the older literal meaning of 'rising sharply, precipitous' (Old English stēap, meaning high, lofty). The metaphor images a price that climbs steeply upward, beyond a reasonable level. Cost comes from Old French coust, from Latin constāre ('to stand at a price, to cost').
What does 'steep cost' mean?
Steep cost has two main senses. Financially, it means a price or expense that is significantly higher than expected or reasonable — too expensive for many. Figuratively, it means a heavy sacrifice or serious consequence — for example: 'victory came at a steep cost in lives'.
What is the difference between 'steep cost' and 'high cost'?
'High cost' is neutral and simply means a large monetary amount. 'Steep cost' implies the cost is excessive, surprising, or disproportionate — it carries a sense of 'more than it should be'. You'd use 'steep cost' when you want to stress that the price is shockingly or unreasonably elevated.
What are synonyms for steep cost?
Financial synonyms: high price, exorbitant price, prohibitive cost, hefty price tag, premium. Figurative synonyms: heavy price, great sacrifice, high toll, bitter cost, serious consequence.
Can 'steep cost' be used figuratively?
Yes, frequently. In figurative use, 'steep cost' describes non-monetary sacrifices or negative consequences: 'the steep cost of war', 'success came at a steep cost to his health', 'they achieved it but at a steep cost to their relationships'. The word steep signals that the toll was severe.
Is 'steep cost' formal or informal?
Steep cost is stylistically neutral and works in both casual and formal writing. In very formal or technical writing you might prefer 'prohibitive cost' (financial) or 'significant sacrifice' / 'heavy toll' (figurative), but 'steep cost' itself is not considered informal.