Parsimoniously: meaning, definitions and examples
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parsimoniously
[ ˌpɑːr.sɪˈmoʊ.ni.əs.li ]
manner of spending
Parsimoniously means in a way that is unwilling to spend money or use resources. It implies a careful and frugal approach to expenses, often to an excessive degree.
Synonyms
economically, frugally, sparingly.
Examples of usage
- She lived parsimoniously, saving every penny she could.
- They approached their budget parsimoniously, avoiding any unnecessary expenditures.
- He made parsimoniously calculated investments that maximized his returns.
Etymology
The term 'parsimoniously' is derived from the word 'parsimonious,' which comes from the Latin 'parsimonia', meaning 'frugality' or 'economy'. The Latin root itself comes from 'parcus,' meaning 'scanty' or 'sparing', which reflects the nature of being unwilling to spend. The word entered the English language in the early 18th century, although its roots trace back further in classical literature. The use of 'parsimonious' in English literature was often associated with stinginess and excessive thriftiness, drawing a critical lens on individuals who might prioritize saving to an extreme, often at the cost of comfort or generosity. The adverbial form, 'parsimoniously,' followed suit, becoming a way to describe actions or behaviors that are marked by this extreme frugality.