pricy

Something is "pricy" when it costs more than you expected or more than you feel comfortable paying. It does not always mean wildly expensive, but it does suggest that the price feels a bit high. You probably would not call a pack of gum pricy, but a designer handbag or a weekend trip could easily feel that way. If you walk through an antique shop and love what you see, you may also notice that many things there feel pricy.

"Pricy" is an informal way to describe something as relatively expensive. It doesn't necessarily mean unaffordable, just that the cost is noticeable and perhaps a little higher than average for similar items or services. It carries a slightly subjective tone—what one person considers pricy, another might find reasonable.

You'll often hear "pricy" used when discussing discretionary purchases—things you want but don't necessarily need. For example: "That restaurant is delicious, but the meals are pretty pricy." Or, "I was hoping to buy a new laptop, but all the good ones seem awfully pricy right now."

The word implies a bit of hesitation or consideration before making a purchase. It isn't quite as strong as "expensive," which can suggest something is truly out of reach for most people. Instead, "pricy" suggests a trade-off: you might be willing to pay the higher price if the item's quality or features are worth it.

Think about concert tickets—they're often pricy, especially for popular artists. You have to decide if the experience is worth the cost. So, when something is described as "pricy," remember it's a signal that your wallet might feel a little lighter after the transaction!