Definitions
worth the cost
Used to describe something that offers a good balance of quality and affordability, providing satisfactory value in exchange for the amount of money spent.cost-effective
Refers to something that is worth the amount of money paid for it, often with the implication that it is a good deal or bargain.
Examples of Value for money
The new fitness studio offers great value for money as it provides a variety of classes for a reasonable price.
This idiom is used to describe a product or service that provides a lot of benefits for the price paid. In this example, the fitness studio offers a range of classes for a lower cost than other studios in the area, making it a good value for the money spent.
I bought a used car that was a great value for money because it had low mileage and was well-maintained.
This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe a specific item or purchase. In this case, the car was a good value because it had been taken care of and had not been driven extensively, making it a good investment for the price paid.
The restaurant's prix fixe menu is a great value for money, as it includes multiple courses and high-quality ingredients.
This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used to describe a specific type of offer or deal. In this case, the prix fixe menu is a good value because it offers multiple courses for a set price, making it a good deal for the quality of food provided.
The new line of running shoes offers great value for money because they are made with high-quality materials and have advanced features for a lower price than similar brands.
This example shows how the idiom can be used to compare different products or brands. In this case, the new line of running shoes offers a good value because they are made with high-quality materials and have advanced features, but are priced lower than similar brands, making them a good choice for those looking for a high-quality product at a lower price.
The online retailer offers free shipping on orders over a certain amount, making it a great value for money for those who order frequently.
This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used to describe a specific benefit or perk offered by a company or service. In this case, the online retailer's free shipping offer is a good value for those who order frequently, as it saves them money on shipping costs and makes it more cost-effective to shop with them over time.
Conclusion
The idiom "value for money" is typically used to indicate that something is worth the cost or is a good deal. It can also suggest that a particular item or service is cost-effective, meaning that it provides satisfactory value in exchange for the money spent. Overall, the idiom emphasizes the importance of getting a fair return for one's money.Origin of "Value for money"
The phrase "value for money" originated in the world of business and economics, where it is used to evaluate the return on investment for a particular product or service. It first appeared in written form in the 1950s, and has since become a commonly used idiom in everyday language.
The origin of the phrase can be traced back to the concept of "utility," which refers to the usefulness or satisfaction that a person derives from a particular product or service. In economics, this is often measured in terms of the amount of money that a person is willing to pay for a particular item. The phrase "value for money" then evolved to describe the balance between cost and utility, highlighting the importance of getting a fair return for the amount of money spent.
Today, the idiom is widely used in various contexts beyond just business and economics, and has become a part of everyday language to describe something that is worth its cost. It is often used to evaluate purchases and to make informed decisions about spending money, emphasizing the importance of getting the best value for one's money.