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付出沉重代价 (pay a heavy price)

Grammar & Usage

fixed expression

neutral

How it works

This is a verb-object phrase where '付出' (fùchū) means 'to pay/expend', and '沉重代价' (chénzhòng dàijià) means 'heavy price'. It describes experiencing significant loss, sacrifice, or negative consequences as a result of an action or event. It is commonly used to emphasize the severity of the cost incurred.

Sample sentences

为了成功，他付出了沉重代价。

To achieve success, he paid a heavy price.

环境污染让我们的地球付出了沉重代价。

Environmental pollution has made our planet pay a heavy price.

历史告诉我们，战争总是要付出沉重代价的。

History tells us that war always exacts a heavy price.

Quick facts

usage_context:Often used in discussions about serious consequences, sacrifices, or losses, particularly in economic, social, or personal contexts. It can imply a necessary sacrifice or an unavoidable negative outcome.

Often used with

为...付出沉重代价 (wèi... fùchū chénzhòng dàijià - pay a heavy price for...)

不得不付出沉重代价 (bùdébù fùchū chénzhòng dàijià - have to pay a heavy price)

战争的沉重代价 (zhànzhēng de chénzhòng dàijià - the heavy price of war)

历史的沉重代价 (lìshǐ de chénzhòng dàijià - the heavy price of history)

付出了巨大的代价 (fùchūle jùdà de dàijià - paid an enormous price)

Mnemonic

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Example

为了成功，他付出了沉重代价。

To achieve success, he paid a heavy price.

环境污染让我们的地球付出了沉重代价。

Environmental pollution has made our planet pay a heavy price.