Thrifty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
thrifty
[หฮธrษชfti ]
Definitions
in terms of spending money
showing a careful use of money, especially by avoiding waste; economical
Synonyms
economical, frugal, frugal, prudent, sparing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| thrifty |
When someone is careful with their money and resources, often managing them well to avoid waste. It has a positive connotation.
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| frugal |
Indicates someone who is careful about spending money and resources, often by being strict with budgeting. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if perceived as overly strict.
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| economical |
Describes actions or items that save money or resources, usually without sacrificing quality.
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| sparing |
Used when someone uses something in very small amounts, often to make it last longer. It is usually associated with resources or effort.
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| prudent |
Describes someone who is wise and careful in making decisions, especially financial ones, to avoid risks.
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Examples of usage
- She was thrifty and saved up for a rainy day.
- His thrifty habits allowed him to retire early.
- The thrifty shopper always looked for the best deals.
in terms of resources
using resources efficiently and avoiding waste
Synonyms
eco-friendly, efficient, prudent, resourceful, sustainable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| thrifty |
Thrifty is used when someone is careful about how they spend money, often trying to save as much as possible.
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| efficient |
Efficient is used when something or someone achieves maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense.
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| resourceful |
Resourceful is used when someone can handle difficult situations well by making the most of available resources.
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| sustainable |
Sustainable is used to describe practices that do not deplete resources or harm the environment, ensuring long-term viability.
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| eco-friendly |
Eco-friendly is used when describing actions, products, or behaviors that are good for the environment.
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| prudent |
Prudent is used when someone makes wise decisions and uses good judgment, especially regarding risks and future consequences.
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Examples of usage
- The company became more thrifty by recycling materials.
- She had a thrifty approach to water conservation.
- The thrifty gardener made use of compost to enrich the soil.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, being thrifty is celebrated, with various sayings promoting the idea that 'a penny saved is a penny earned.'
- The Great Depression period in the 1930s led to a surge in thrifty behaviors, as families had to stretch their resources.
- In Asian traditions, tough economic times fostered a mindset of saving and budgeting, with practices still observed today.
Psychology
- Studies show that people who practice thriftiness often experience less anxiety about financial stability.
- A thrifty lifestyle is linked to mindfulness, as individuals become more aware of their spending habits and prioritize necessities.
- Being thrifty can lead to a feeling of accomplishment and control over one's finances, boosting overall well-being.
Pop Culture
- Popular TV shows like 'Extreme Couponing' celebrate extreme thrifty behaviors, showing how people save significant amounts of money.
- The 'Minimalist' movement promotes a thrifty lifestyle by encouraging people to own less and spend less, focusing on experiences over possessions.
- In fashion, the term 'thrifted' has gained popularity, referring to trendy items bought from thrift stores, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
Environmental Impact
- Adopting a thrifty lifestyle can contribute to sustainable living, as it often leads to reduced waste and resource conservation.
- Choosing second-hand items over new can help decrease the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and shipping.
- Living thriftily encourages creativity, as individuals repurpose and upcycle items instead of discarding them, fostering an eco-friendly mindset.
Origin of 'thrifty'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'thrifty' comes from the Old Norse word 'รพrift', meaning 'prosperity' or 'to thrive'.
- It was first used in English in the late 15th century, reflecting a time when careful spending became crucial.
- Over time, the term evolved to emphasize frugality and wise financial choices rather than just wealth.
The word 'thrifty' originated from the Old English word 'thriftig', which meant thriving or prosperous. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent the idea of being prudent with resources and money. The concept of thriftiness has been valued in various cultures throughout history as a virtue associated with wisdom and sustainability.
See also: thrift, thriftiness.