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"Costoso" is an adjective which is often translated as "expensive", and "caro" is an adjective which is also often translated as "expensive". Learn more about the difference between "costoso" and "caro" below.
costoso(
kohs
-
toh
-
soh
)
An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
adjective
a. expensive
Dejé de fumar porque los cigarrillos son muy costosos.I stopped smoking because cigarettes are very expensive.
b. costly
El paracaidismo es un pasatiempo demasiado costoso y ya no me lo puedo permitir.Skydiving is too costly of a hobby and I can't afford it anymore.
a. difficult
Superar tu fobia será costoso, pero no imposible.Overcoming your phobia will be difficult, but not impossible.
a. costly
Despedir al gerente de operaciones fue un error costoso para la empresa.Firing the operations manager was a costly mistake for the company.
Copyright © 2025 Dictionary Media Group, Inc.
caro(
kah
-
roh
)
An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
adjective
a. expensive
Queríamos comprar un coche nuevo, pero todos son muy caros.We wanted to buy a new car, but they're all so expensive.
b. dear
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
Aunque fueran caras, valió la pena comprar estas botas.Even if they were dear, it was worth buying these boots.
2.
A word or phrase restricted in usage to literature or established writing (e.g., sex, once upon a time).
(literary)
(cherished)
a. dear
Atesoro nuestros caros recuerdos.I treasure our dear memories.
An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
adverb
a. expensive (adjective)
La excursión a Tequila costó caro.The day trip to Tequila was expensive.
b. a lot
¿Costó caro el hotel en Tenerife?Did the hotel in Tenerife cost a lot?
c. high (adjective)
En esa tienda de perfumes lo venden todo muy caro.Their prices are really high in that perfume shop.
d. dearly
Los que ofendieron al capo van a pagar muy caro su error.Those who offended the capo will pay dearly for their mistake.
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