Meaning and Usage
The adjective 昂贵 (áng guì) describes something that is expensive or costly. It often carries a nuance not just of high price but also of high value or quality, implying that the cost is justified by the item's worth.
Common Contexts
昂贵 is frequently used in contexts involving luxury goods, high-end services, or materials that are rare or of superior quality. For example, you might hear it describing expensive electronics, gourmet food, or premium real estate.
Collocations and Patterns
- 昂贵的价格: emphasizes the high price itself.
- 昂贵的材料: highlights costly materials used.
- 昂贵的代价: refers to a high cost or price paid, sometimes metaphorically.
Nuances and Tips
When using 昂贵, speakers often imply that the price is justified by quality or exclusivity, unlike simply saying 贵 which only means expensive. Avoid confusing 昂贵 with 贵; 昂贵 is more formal and often used in written or formal spoken Chinese.
Common Confusion
Don't confuse 昂贵 with 贵 alone. 贵 is more general and can be used in everyday conversation, while 昂贵 is more emphatic and formal, often used in business, advertising, or descriptive writing.