Parsimony: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe extreme unwillingness to spend money or use resources, often in a negative sense.

• His parsimony was well-known; he never spent a penny more than necessary.
• The company's parsimony led to outdated office equipment.

Relates to the quality of being plain, uncomplicated, or without unnecessary adornments.

• She was admired for the simplicity of her lifestyle.
• The simplicity of the design made it both elegant and functional.

Refers to the careful management of resources to avoid waste and unnecessary expenditure.

• Her economy in budgeting helped her save a lot of money.
• They practiced economy in their everyday life to reduce their expenses.

Describes the quality of being thrifty or economical in the use of resources, often seen as a positive trait.

• Frugality is key to their financial success.
• His frugality meant that he always found ways to save money.

Used when referring to extreme unwillingness to spend money, often perceived negatively.

• Her parsimony was evident when she refused to buy new clothes despite her old ones falling apart

Used positively to describe wise spending habits and saving practices.

• His thrift allowed him to save enough money to buy a house within a few years

Typically used to describe a positive lifestyle choice involving the prudent use of resources and avoidance of unnecessary spending.

• Frugality is her guiding principle, so she always looks for sales and discounts

Used in a positive sense to describe the careful and efficient management of money, resources, or time.

• They practiced economy by creating a weekly budget and sticking to it