Frugality: meaning, definitions and examples

Emphasizes being careful with spending and making thoughtful decisions to save money. Often seen as a positive characteristic.

• Her frugality allowed her to save enough for a down payment on a house.
• Living a life of frugality helped him retire early.

Similar to thrift, but may include being practical and creative in saving money. Often has a positive connotation.

• Her thriftiness was evident in the way she repurposed old furniture.
• Thriftiness can lead to significant savings over time.

Highlights the importance of saving and careful management of money, often seen in personal finance discussions.

• Thrift is an essential principle for anyone wanting to build wealth.
• The thrift store offers great bargains for budget-conscious shoppers.

Refers to using resources, including money, time, and effort, efficiently. Common in discussion of cost-effectiveness.

• The economicalness of the new heating system saved the company thousands.
• Choosing public transportation is often praised for its economicalness.

Focuses on being minimalist or restrained in the use of resources. Can sometimes imply excessive stinginess.

• His sparingness with heating during winter made the house quite uncomfortable.
• Sparingness in using natural resources is crucial for sustainability.