thrift
THRIFT
/θrɪft/
The quality of using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully.
A positive trait, similar to frugality, emphasizing careful management and avoidance of waste. Often associated with saving and wise investment.
The story behind the word. The word 'thrift' has a fascinating journey! It comes from the Old Norse word 'þrifask,' meaning 'to thrive' or 'to prosper.' In English, it evolved to mean 'prosperity' or 'success' before settling on its current meaning of 'careful management of money.' The idea is that by being thrifty, you enable yourself to thrive and prosper. It's a beautiful linguistic link between careful living and flourishing!
Word relationships
- frugality: The quality of being frugal; very close in meaning to thrift.
- economy: Careful management of resources, often implying efficiency.
- prudence: The quality of being prudent; acting with care and thought for the future, often encompassing financial wisdom.
- extravagance: Lack of restraint in spending money or using resources.
- wastefulness: The act of using or expending something carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose.
- prodigality: Extravagant spending; wastefulness.
Commonly confused with
- frugality: These two words are nearly synonymous, both referring to the quality of being careful with money and resources. 'Thrift' can sometimes imply a more ingrained habit or a moral virtue.
Word family
- thrifty (adjective): Using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully.
- thriftily (adverb): In a thrifty manner.
Collocations
- habit of thrift
- promote thrift
- thrift store
- thrift shop
Example sentences
- "Her grandmother's lifelong habit of thrift allowed her to build a considerable nest egg." Describing a person's financial character.
- "In times of economic hardship, the importance of thrift and self-reliance often comes to the forefront." A societal value.
- "Waste not, want not: a maxim of thrift." A proverb about financial wisdom.
Memory hook
THRIFT helps you THRIVE financially. THRIVE from THRIFT
When not to use
Do not use 'thrift' to describe excessive stinginess; it carries a positive connotation of good management, not meanness.
Fun facts
- The term 'thrift store' or 'thrift shop' refers to stores selling second-hand goods, often for charity, embodying the spirit of economical shopping.
Explore more words
prudent, conserve, judicious, resourceful, efficient, stewardship
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