What does "cost something one's life" in this context mean?
Actually,I have already read the meaning and the example in Longman dictionary,but I don't understand this phrase in this context,
( It's about hyena)
"He (hyena) once witnessed a brutal attacked.This young male(hyena) tried to join the clan.The female's rejection almost cost the outsider his life."

What does "cost the outsider his life" in this context mean?

Thank you very much

Question

What does "cost something one's life" in this context mean?
 Actually,I have already read the meaning and the example in Longman dictionary,but I don't understand this phrase in this context,
( It's about hyena)
"He (hyena) once witnessed a brutal attacked.This young male(hyena) tried to join the clan.The female's rejection almost cost the outsider his life."

What does "cost the outsider his life" in this context mean?

Thank you very much

Answer

It means he nearly died.

Answer

Hi Baboon!

One use of the word "cost" is to indicate a price paid or required for something.   It can also be used to refer to a loss or sacrifice.  If an action almost ends a person's life you can say:  "It almost cost him his life."  If it kills him you can say:  "It cost him his life. "