Splurging: meaning, definitions and examples
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splurging
[ˈsplɜːrdʒɪŋ ]
Definition
shopping spree
To spend money lavishly or extravagantly beyond one's means.
Synonyms
indulge in luxury, lavish spending, spend extravagantly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| splurging |
This is often used informally to describe spending a large amount of money on something, typically in a spontaneous or self-indulgent manner.
|
| spend extravagantly |
This phrase describes spending money in a very free or over-the-top manner, often implying a lack of concern for the cost. It frequently has a negative connotation.
|
| lavish spending |
This term is often used to describe spending that is excessive and grandiose. It has a more neutral to slightly negative connotation, implying that the spending might be unnecessary or overly extravagant.
|
| indulge in luxury |
This phrase is generally used in a more formal or descriptive context to convey the idea of treating oneself to luxurious or high-end experiences or items.
|
Examples of usage
- I couldn't resist splurging on those designer shoes.
- She splurged on a luxurious vacation to the Caribbean.
- Don't splurge on unnecessary items, save your money instead.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'splurge' was first used in the 19th century to describe a sudden lavish expenditure.
- It may derive from the 18th-century word 'splash' which indicated a light, carefree action, aligning with indulgent spending.
- The term gained popularity in the 1950s, becoming associated with post-World War II consumerism as people began spending more.
Psychology
- Splurging can create a temporary boost in happiness, known as the 'hedonic treadmill,' where people adapt to new acquisitions quickly.
- Spending sprees can trigger feelings of guilt or stress afterward, as individuals weigh financial responsibilities against the pleasure of their purchases.
- Research suggests that people are often happier when they spend money on experiences rather than material goods, which may reduce the urge to splurge.
Cultural Perspectives
- In certain cultures, splurging is celebrated as a reward for hard work, embodying values of enjoyment and self-care.
- Consumer events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday have turned splurging into a cultural phenomenon, with many planning their purchases in advance.
- Holiday seasons often encourage splurging, as gift-giving rituals encourage spending on family and friends, influencing economic patterns.
Finance
- Financial experts warn against impulsive splurging, as it can lead to debt and financial strain if not managed carefully.
- Creating a budget can help individuals enjoy occasional splurges without jeopardizing their financial stability.
- Seemingly small splurges can add up over time, potentially diverting funds from savings and investment goals.
Pop Culture
- Reality TV shows often depict wealthy individuals splurging on extravagant lifestyles, influencing viewers’ perceptions of wealth.
- The phrase 'treat yourself' popularized by the TV series 'Parks and Recreation' encourages splurging as a self-care act.
- Social media platforms have created trends around luxury spending, showcasing lifestyles of the rich and famous, which can inspire others to splurge.
Translations
Translations of the word "splurging" in other languages:
🇵🇹 esbanjar
🇮🇳 फिजूल खर्च करना (phizool kharch karna)
🇩🇪 verschwenden
🇮🇩 menghamburkan uang
🇺🇦 тринькати
🇵🇱 roztrwaniać
🇯🇵 浪費する (ろうひする, rōhi suru)
🇫🇷 dépenser sans compter
🇪🇸 derrochar
🇹🇷 savurganlık yapmak
🇰🇷 낭비하다 (nangbi hada)
🇸🇦 تبذير (tabdheer)
🇨🇿 utrácet
🇸🇰 utrácanie
🇨🇳 挥霍 (huī huò)
🇸🇮 razsipavati
🇮🇸 eyða peningum
🇰🇿 шығындалу (shyghyndalu)
🇬🇪 ფლანგვა (phlangva)
🇦🇿 israf etmək
🇲🇽 derrochar
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,064, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.