英語の似た単語のちがい｜cheap・inexpensive・slim などの使い分け
In English, two words can have almost the same meaning but very different feelings.
This is important because English speakers often think about tone, not just meaning.
A word may be correct in the dictionary, but still sound rude, negative, or critical.
Let’s look at some common word pairs that learners often confuse, and how the feeling changes.
1. Cheap vs Inexpensive vs Affordable
All three words are connected to price.
But the feeling is very different.
cheap
Can sound negative
Suggests low quality
Often feels critical or insulting
Example:
This bag looks cheap.
Here, cheap does not only mean low price.
It suggests the bag is badly made.
inexpensive
Neutral or positive
Focuses on good value
Example:
This bag is inexpensive, but very strong.
This sounds polite and practical.
affordable
Polite and neutral
Very common in business and advertising
Example:
The hotel is affordable for families.
This sounds helpful, not negative.
Tip
When talking about products, services, or prices:
cheap can sound rude or critical
inexpensive and affordable are much safer choices
In polite conversation, affordable is often the best option.
2. Skinny vs Slim
Both describe body shape.
But the emotional tone is very different.
skinny
Often negative or critical
Can sound rude
Example:
He looks very skinny.
This may suggest something is wrong. He should eat more. He doesn’t look healthy.
slim
Positive or neutral
Sounds polite
Example:
She is tall and slim.
This is a compliment. She has a good body shape.
Cultural note:
Talking about body shape is sensitive in English.
Choosing the polite word matters.
3. Plain vs Simple
These words are often confused.
plain
Can mean boring
Suggests no style
Example:
The room looks plain.
This sounds like criticism.
simple
Neutral or positive
Focuses on ease or clarity
Example:
The design is simple and clean.
This sounds intentional and positive.
Tip:
If you want to praise something for being clear or easy, use simple, not plain.
4. Lazy vs Relaxed
These words describe behaviour, but the judgment is very different.
lazy
Strongly negative
Criticises effort
Example:
He is lazy at work.
This is a serious criticism.
relaxed
Neutral or positive
Describes attitude, not effort
Example:
He has a relaxed working style.
This sounds calm and professional.
Tip:
Use relaxed when describing personality.
Avoid lazy unless you truly want to criticise and say something negative.
Why This Matters
English speakers often soften opinions.
Learners may choose the “strong” word without meaning to.
This can cause:
awkward moments
hurt feelings
misunderstandings at work
Learning the feeling of words helps you sound more natural and polite.
Practice
Choose the safer option.
You are talking about the price of someone’s clothes.
A. cheap
B. affordable
You want to compliment someone’s appearance.
A. skinny
B. slim
You describe a design in a meeting.
A. plain
B. simple
You describe a colleague’s attitude.
A. lazy
B. relaxed
Final Thought
Words with similar meanings do not always feel the same.
In English, tone is often more important than accuracy.
When you are unsure, choose the softer, more neutral option.
It will help you communicate more clearly and more politely.
Answer Key
B
B
B
B