inexpensive
UK[ˌɪnɪkˈspensɪv]US[ˌɪnɪkˈspensɪv]
adj
costing little money; not expensive.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
ex
pensive
in
not
ex
out
pensive
costly
Etymology
the word "inexpensive" is a modern english formation built upon the existing adjective "expensive". it combines the latin-derived negative prefix "in-" (not) with the word "expensive". "expensive" itself originates from the latin verb expendere, meaning "to weigh out, to pay", from ex- (out) and pendere (to weigh). the literal sense of "weighing out money" evolved into the meaning "costly". therefore, "inexpensive" logically constructs its meaning as "not costly", following a clear and transparent morphological pattern within english.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + ex (out) + pensive (costly)
- in: a latin prefix meaning "not".
- ex: a latin prefix meaning "out, out of, thoroughly".
- pensive: from the latin root pens- (to weigh, pay), via the english word "expensive" (costly). here, it functions as the core adjective meaning "costly".
Examples
the store offers a range of inexpensive yet stylish clothing.
we found an inexpensive solution to the problem.
it's an inexpensive restaurant, perfect for students.