Translation guide
Expresses that something is sold, bought, or produced at a price lower than what it costs to make or acquire, i.e., at a loss. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with set phrases like 原価割れ (genkaware) or 採算割れ (aisanware), or with constructions using を下回る (o shitamawaru).
To say that a product or service is sold at a price lower than its production or purchase cost, resulting in a loss.
A common business term meaning 'below cost'. Literally 'cost break', it indicates selling below the original cost price. Used in commercial contexts.
This product is being sold below cost.
Means 'below the break-even point' or 'unprofitable'. Emphasizes that the selling price does not cover costs, making the business unsustainable.
We ended up accepting the order at a price below cost.
A more analytical phrase meaning 'to fall below cost'. Used in formal or written explanations.
The selling price is below cost.
Literally 'red-ink sales', meaning selling at a loss. Emphasizes the financial loss rather than just the cost relationship.
If we keep selling below cost, the company won't last.
To say that someone purchases or obtains something for less than its production or market cost.
Means 'cheaper than cost'. A straightforward way to say you bought something below cost.
I was able to buy it below cost.
Specifically refers to purchasing below the wholesale or procurement cost. Common in business contexts.
To say that the cost of production or operation exceeds the revenue or selling price.
原価割れ focuses strictly on the unit cost price, while 採算割れ considers overall profitability, including overhead. Use 原価割れ for simple cost-price comparisons and 採算割れ when emphasizing business viability.
Even if it's below cost, we sometimes sell cheaply for promotion.
If it continues to be below cost, we must consider withdrawing.
Do not translate 'below cost' word-for-word as コストの下 (kosuto no shita) or 費用以下 (hiyō ika). These are unnatural. Use the set phrases or patterns provided.
We were able to purchase it at a price below cost.
原油価格がコスト割れしている。
Crude oil prices are below cost.