Cost is a dimensional trait which represents the practically irreversible loss of one or more agent's subsequent ability to use a specific resource due to action which affects that resource.
Cost is a trait of actions and activities which alter, destroy, or remove access to a resource. Potential actions may be designed by describing their potential costs (or risks). Reports of past actions may describe cost(s) which were experienced or directly measured.
Each cost can be indirectly or directly translated into a monetary total for the (inherently situational) fair market value of a resource which has been lost. Such calculations are straightforward for monetary and material resources. They’re difficult for social resources; however, rough estimates (which allow broad margins for error!) can be very useful when making difficult decisions.
Benefit is a complementary term.
Risk may be considered a subtype of cost.
weakness