steep
Translation
steep, expensive, sharp
Examples
The hill was very steep.
The hill was very steep.
There was a steep rise in prices.
There was a steep rise in prices.
£10 for a coffee is a bit steep.
$12 for a coffee is a bit steep.
Grammar Patterns
a steep ((noun)) rising or falling at a sharp angle We climbed a steep hill.
((price)) is steep (informal) expensive The price of tickets is a bit steep.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (slope) sheer, abrupt; (price) expensive, pricey; Antonyms: (slope) gentle, gradual; (price) cheap, reasonable
Etymology
From Old English 'stēap', meaning 'high, lofty'.
Memory Tips
Imagine climbing a very steep hill – it's difficult. Also, imagine a price chart shooting up steeply – it's expensive.