cost-benefit analysis

• cost benefit analysis

cost-benefit analysis (countable and uncountable, plural cost-benefit analyses)

1. (finance, economics) A methodology to help appraise or assess the case for a project or proposal, by estimating the net cost or benefit of the project of proposal.
   • 1963 June, “Second thoughts on Beeching”, in Modern Railways, page 361:

     Gratifying as it is to read such editorials even in the press which supports Mr. Marples' party—and to learn that the G.N. Line's London suburban electrification is at last being given a cost-benefit analysis of the kind which overwhelmingly justified the L.T. Victoria Line […] but years later than need have been […]

2. Any comparison of costs and benefits.

• felicific calculus