I think being frugal is about being wise with how you spend your money.
When buying things, you want to buy things that you need, for a price that gives you good value.
So you may outlay significant dollars, but if it lasts you 10 years, you have probably gotten good value from it.
Buying things cheap may give you false economies. ie. you buy something cheap but it doesn't last long. So in the end it will cost you more!
I like the term frugal a lot more.
Cheap......well, i can take it or leave it.