This quote is a reflection on the value we assign to things and people. It suggests that the term ‘cheap’ is derogatory and should not be used to describe something or someone. It implies a lack of quality, worth, or respect, which is why the author prefers to use the terms ‘expensive’ or ‘inexpensive’ when referring to clothing. These words simply describe the monetary value of an item, without attaching any negative connotations to its quality or worth.

The idea that people can be ‘cheap’ is a more complex one. It suggests that people can be stingy or ungenerous, not necessarily in terms of money, but in terms of their time, effort, or emotional investment. The author is condemning this kind of behavior, arguing that it devalues the person in question.

In today’s world, this idea can be applied in various ways. In terms of personal development, it encourages us to be mindful of the value we assign to ourselves and others. It suggests that we should strive to be generous and open, rather than being ‘cheap’ with our time, energy, and emotions. It also reminds us to be respectful and appreciative of the things we have, rather than dismissing them as ‘cheap’ or unworthy.

In a broader societal context, it challenges the consumerist mentality that often equates lower cost with lower value. It encourages us to recognize that the worth of an item is not solely defined by its price tag, but by the quality of its materials, the skill and time invested in its creation, and the enjoyment or utility it brings to the user. This can promote more sustainable and ethical consumption habits, as we start to value items for their true worth rather than their cost.