flat rate

flat rate

A customer pays a flat rate for shipping on their online order.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A fixed, uniform charge: "flat rate" refers to a single, unchanging price or fee charged for a service or product, regardless of the amount of time, quantity, or usage involved. It is a pricing model that does not vary based on factors like consumption or duration.
Usage Examples
  • (A fixed monthly fee that does not change with usage.)
  • (A single, predetermined price for the service.)
  • (A uniform fee for a specific type of work.)
Advanced Usage
  • "at a flat rate": used to describe a service or cost that is charged uniformly.

    • You can rent the car at a flat rate of $30 per day. (The daily cost is fixed, not based on mileage.)
  • "flat rate of interest": in finance, a fixed interest rate that does not compound or change over the loan term.

    • The bank offered a flat rate of 5% on the personal loan. (The interest percentage remains constant.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Flat-rate (adj): describing a pricing system that uses a flat rate.

    • We signed up for a flat-rate subscription plan. (The plan charges a single, fixed fee.)
  • Flat fee (n): a synonym for a fixed charge, often used in legal or professional services.

    • The lawyer quoted a flat fee for drafting the contract. (A single, all-inclusive price.)
Synonyms
  • Fixed price: a price that does not change.
  • Uniform rate: a rate that is the same for everyone or every case.
  • Set charge: a predetermined fee.
Related Idioms
  • No variations allowed: this idiom captures the idea that a flat rate does not adjust.

    • With this flat-rate plan, there are no variations allowed for extra usage. (The price is fixed and does not change.)
  • All-inclusive price: a price that covers everything without extra charges.

    • The vacation package came at an all-inclusive price, similar to a flat rate. (One payment covers all costs.)