Cheapen

To reduce the value or quality of something, either literally or figuratively; to make something seem less worthy of respect or admiration. This can involve a physical lowering of standards, such as using inferior materials or cutting corners in production. It can also pertain to abstract concepts, such as diluting an idea's impact by excessive use or by associating it with something perceived as tawdry or vulgar. Ultimately, cheapening implies a loss, either tangible or intangible, rendering the subject less desirable or impactful.

Cheapen meaning with examples

• The manufacturer decided to Cheapen the product by replacing genuine leather with synthetic imitations. This lowered production costs, but consumers noticed the decline in quality immediately. Many felt misled by the inferior material and perceived the brand's reputation was damaged.
• The overuse of special effects cheapened the movie's emotional impact. Excessive CGI distracted from the plot. Audiences found it hard to become immersed in the storytelling. This meant a loss of narrative power and the film's central message became less impactful.
• The company's decision to Cheapen its brand image by associating it with controversial celebrities backfired. Customers felt the association negatively reflected on the company's values. This caused them to lose faith in the brand and their revenue dropped.
• Some believe that constant exposure to violence on television cheapens the value of human life. The overstimulation of such scenes numbs viewers. These scenes are no longer shocking, leading to a desensitization to real-world tragedies.
• The artist's decision to mass-produce his paintings cheapened his art in the eyes of the public. The unique character of his work was lessened. It lost its scarcity, becoming a commodity, and the value of individual pieces decreased.