Crossword Genius

Nice but pricey (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dear

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This might be a double definition.

'nice' is the first definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Maybe you can see an association between them that I can't see?

'pricey' is the second definition.
(synonyms)

'but' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dear that I've seen before include "Precious" , "polite form of address" , "Needing plenty of bread" , "Expensive; sweet" , "love" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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