cheapen
C1formal, critical
Definition
Meaning
To make something become lower in price, value, or quality; to devalue.
To cause someone or something to be perceived as less respectable or worthy.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily used as a transitive verb. Often carries a negative connotation of devaluing, especially in non-financial contexts (e.g., reputation, experience).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling follows standard conventions ('-ise' is not used for this verb).
Connotations
Equally pejorative in both dialects when referring to non-monetary devaluation.
Frequency
Low-to-medium frequency in both varieties, more common in written and formal spoken registers.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
SVO (Subject verb Object): 'The scandal cheapened the brand.'Passive: 'The award was cheapened by such controversy.'Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “cheapen oneself (to behave in a way that lowers one's dignity)”
- “cheapen the discourse (to lower the quality of debate)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Criticism of strategies that might 'cheapen a brand' in the long term for short-term sales.
Academic
Used in sociology or economics to discuss the devaluation of cultural capital or labour.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used to criticise actions perceived as lowering standards: "All these discounts cheapen the neighbourhood."
Technical
Not typically used in highly technical domains outside of marketing or brand management discussions.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The constant sales promotions risk cheapening the luxury label.
- He felt such gossip cheapened the memory of the deceased.
American English
- Using all that plastic really cheapens the look of the remodel.
- The politician's attack ads cheapened the entire election.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Examples
By CEFR Level
- N/A
- N/A
- The manager didn't want to cheapen the brand by selling in discount supermarkets.
- Such sensational headlines cheapen the important news of the day.
- The author refused to cheapen her literary reputation by writing frivolous sequels.
- Critics argued that the film's reliance on clichés cheapened its profound source material.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: To make CHEAP + EN (verb suffix). To make something seem cheap.
Conceptual Metaphor
VALUE/WORTH IS HEIGHT (to cheapen is to lower). PURITY/QUALITY IS CLEANLINESS (to cheapen is to tarnish).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'cheap' as simply inexpensive. 'Cheapen' is an action verb implying a negative change. Avoid translating directly from Russian verbs for 'getting cheaper' (становиться дешевле) if the connotation is neutral or positive.
Common Mistakes
- Using it intransitively (*'The product cheapened' - use 'became cheaper' or 'dropped in price').
- Confusing it with the adjective 'cheap'.
- Misspelling as *'cheapened' in present tense.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'cheapen' used most appropriately?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Almost never. Its core meaning involves a reduction in perceived value or quality, which is inherently negative. For a positive reduction in price, use 'reduce the cost', 'make more affordable', or 'lower the price'.
They are often synonyms. 'Devalue' is more technical and neutral, especially in economics (devalue a currency). 'Cheapen' carries a stronger connotation of causing something to seem vulgar, common, or less respectable.
No, it is a mid-to-low frequency verb (C1 level). It is more common in writing, criticism, and formal discussion than in everyday conversation.
Yes, but it is metaphorical. It means to cause them to be perceived as less dignified or respectable (e.g., "She cheapened herself by spreading those rumours.").