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extortionate

adjective

/ɪkˈstɔr ʃə nɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of extortionate

Unreasonably or excessively expensive or demanding in terms of cost, price, or conditions.
"The ticket prices for the concert were extortionate, leaving many fans unable to attend their favorite artist's performance."

Detailed meaning of extortionate

It implies that the amount being charged or requested is beyond what is fair, just, or reasonable. When applied to prices or fees, it suggests an exorbitant or inflated value that takes advantage of people's needs or desperation. Similarly, when describing conditions or demands, it indicates an oppressive or unfair imposition that seeks to exploit others for personal gain. The term "extortionate" carries a negative connotation, highlighting the unfairness and unjustifiably high levels of cost or demands being imposed, often leading to feelings of frustration, resentment, or even helplessness.

Example sentences containing extortionate

1. The hotel's room service prices were extortionate, charging exorbitant amounts for a simple bottle of water.
2. The company's pricing strategy was deemed extortionate by customers, as they were asked to pay double the market value for their products.
3. The landlord's decision to raise the rent by 50% was considered extortionate by the tenants, who struggled to afford the new amount.
4. The car repair shop quoted an extortionate price for fixing a minor dent, taking advantage of the customer's lack of knowledge.
5. The cable company's monthly subscription fees were extortionate, causing many customers to switch to more affordable alternatives.
6. The resort's spa services were known for their extortionate prices, making it a luxury only accessible to the wealthy.

History and etymology of extortionate

The adjective 'extortionate' is closely related to the verb 'extort' and carries its etymological heritage. It stems from the Latin word 'extortionatus,' which is the past participle of 'extortionare,' itself derived from 'extorquere.' As previously mentioned, 'extorquere' combines 'ex,' meaning 'out,' and 'torquere,' meaning 'to twist' or 'to wrench.' In this context, 'extortionatus' signifies something that has been 'twisted out' or obtained through coercion. As the term made its way into English, it evolved into 'extortionate,' describing something that is unreasonably or excessively costly or demanding in terms of cost, price, or conditions. This adjective retains its connection to the concept of extracting something forcefully, reflecting its etymology rooted in the idea of twisting or wrenching something out of someone, albeit in the context of exorbitant demands.

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Further usage examples of extortionate

1. The cost of textbooks at the university bookstore was extortionate, placing a heavy burden on students' already tight budgets.
2. The designer handbag had an extortionate price tag, making it an extravagant purchase for most people.
3. The airline charged an extortionate fee for changing a flight, leaving travelers frustrated and feeling taken advantage of.
4. The parking fees at the city center were extortionate, discouraging visitors from driving and contributing to traffic congestion.
5. The insurance company's premiums for high-risk drivers were extortionate, making it difficult for them to afford proper coverage.
6. The hotel's room rates were extortionate during peak tourist season.
7. The cost of healthcare in the United States is often seen as extortionate.
8. She couldn't believe the extortionate price of the designer handbag.
9. The ticket prices for the concert were simply extortionate.
10. Rent in the city had become extortionate, forcing many to move.
11. The restaurant's menu featured extortionate prices for simple dishes.
12. The repair shop charged an extortionate fee for a minor fix.
13. The cable company's monthly bills were consistently extortionate.
14. The luxury car's maintenance costs were extortionate.
15. The resort charged an extortionate fee for access to the spa.
16. The airline's baggage fees were considered extortionate.
17. The parking lot near the stadium had extortionate rates on game days.
18. The college textbook prices were outrageously extortionate.
19. He found the price of organic produce to be extortionate.
20. The boutique hotel offered an extortionate package for honeymooners.
21. The lawyer's hourly rate was extortionate, but he was the best.
22. The theme park's food prices were nothing short of extortionate.
23. The rent for the penthouse apartment was extortionate, but worth it.
24. The gym's membership fees were extortionate compared to others.
25. The fine for overdue library books was surprisingly extortionate.