The crossword solution for the term COST, SO TO SPEAK is DAMAGE. DAMAGE is a term used to describe the harm or loss caused by an event or action. It can refer to physical DAMAGE, such as destruction of property, or it can refer to emotional or psychological DAMAGE, such as hurt feelings or trauma. DAMAGE can also refer to financial losses, such as the cost of repairs or medical bills. In this context, the phrase 'cost, so to speak' is referring to the DAMAGE that has been done.