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Skimping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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skimping

[skɪmpɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

spending less

To skimp means to use less than what is needed or to economize on something, often at the expense of quality. This term is often used in contexts where a person or organization is cutting corners to save money or resources. When someone is skimping, they are typically avoiding full costs or investing less than is appropriate. This can lead to subpar results or products that do not meet desired standards.

Synonyms

cut corners, economize, scrimp, stingy.

Examples of usage

  • He was skimping on the ingredients for the cake.
  • The contractor was skimping on materials to save money.
  • She accused her boss of skimping on employee safety measures.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that skimping in budgeting can lead to increased anxiety about financial security.
  • People who overly skimp on spending in relationships may experience loneliness or dissatisfaction.
  • The tendency to skimp can sometimes stem from a scarcity mindset, where individuals see resources as limited.

Cultural Insights

  • In many cultures, skimping, especially on food, is frowned upon as it can symbolize lack of abundance or generosity.
  • Festivals often highlight the opposite of skimping, celebrating excess in food and community spirit.
  • The phrase 'penny wise, pound foolish' aligns with the idea of skimping, where saving small amounts may lead to greater losses.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'The Pursuit of Happyness' showcase characters who skimp on basic needs to achieve greater dreams.
  • In various TV shows, frugality is often portrayed humorously, highlighting the absurdities of excessive skimping.
  • Music and lyrics often reference the idea of living simply or skimping on luxuries as a form of personal philosophy.

Business

  • In business, skimping on quality can lead to negative customer experiences and long-term harm to a brand.
  • Companies sometimes skimp on marketing budgets to save costs, yet this can reduce visibility and sales opportunities.
  • Effective financial management encourages smart investment rather than skimping, leading to sustained company growth.

Origin of 'skimping'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the 16th-century word 'skimp,' which meant to economize or to use sparingly.
  • It has roots in the Middle English word 'skimpen,' referring to a reduction or limitation.
  • As a term, it evolved alongside the growing concerns about frugality during periods of economic hardship.

The term 'skimp' originates from the late 17th century as a dialect word in the English language, likely derived from the Scandinavian languages, particularly the Old Norse word 'skampta,' which means to cut or reduce. The use of 'skimp' has evolved over time and has been adopted into more common usage in various forms since the mid-19th century. Initially, it referred to a lack of ample supply or using less than required in various contexts, especially in regard to time or resources. Its application expanded to include behavior perceived as inconsiderate or inadequate, especially when it results in diminished quality or fulfillment. In contemporary usage, 'skimp' retains this notion of inadequacy or restraint but is often associated with financial prudence or dishonesty, depending on the context.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,412, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.