* He achieved his goals at the expense of his health. (Meaning he sacrificed his health to reach his goals)
* The company's growth came at the expense of its employees' well-being. (Meaning the company's growth caused problems for its employees)
* She made a joke at the expense of her friend, but it wasn't very funny. (Meaning she made a joke that made her friend look bad)
* The new law benefits the wealthy at the expense of the poor. (Meaning the law helps the rich while harming the poor)
The phrase "at the expense of" implies a negative consequence or trade-off. It means that something is gained, but at the cost of something else.