at the expense of

In a way that harms someone or something while helping another person or thing.

• Do not work at the expense of your health.
• The factory grew at the expense of the surrounding forest.
• She gained power at the expense of her former allies.

How to use it: at the expense of someone/something (They increased profits at the expense of safety.)

Similar words: to the detriment of

Common phrases: at the expense of something, at the expense of safety

With the cost paid by the person or group named.

• The dinner was at the expense of the club.
• They traveled at the expense of the government.
• Was the hotel stay at the expense of the university?

How to use it: at the expense of someone/something (The trip was at the expense of the company.)

Similar words: paid for by, at the cost of

Common phrases: at the expense of someone, at the expense of taxpayers

Used to name the person a joke makes fun of.

• The joke was at the expense of our teacher.
• She made everyone laugh at the expense of her husband.
• Stop making jokes at the expense of the new student.

How to use it: a joke at the expense of someone (He told a joke at the expense of his brother.)

Similar words: making fun of

Common phrases: at the expense of someone, at the expense of friends

With the person or group named responsible for what happens.

• The risk is at the expense of the owner.
• Under this agreement, storage is at the expense of the buyer.
• Responsibility for any damage remains at the expense of the carrier.

How to use it: at the expense of someone (Any further risk is at the expense of the owner.)

Similar words: under the responsibility of

Common phrases: at the expense of someone, at the expense of owners