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"Expensive" is an adjective which is often translated as "caro", and "costly" is an adjective which is often translated as "costoso". Learn more about the difference between "expensive" and "costly" below.
costly(
kast
-
li
)An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
1. (expensive)
2. (damaging)
a. costoso
This scandal has been a very costly experience for the government.Este escándalo ha sido una experiencia muy costosa para el gobierno.
b. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
It was a costly negligence, especially considering that it brought about his dismissal.Fue una negligencia por la que pagó un alto precio, ya que provocó su despido.
Losing the ball to his opponent turned out to be a costly mistake.Dejarse quitar el balón por su adversario fue un error que le salió caro.