thrift
THRIFT
/θrɪft/
The quality of using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully.
Implies a practical, sensible approach to managing money, often associated with saving and avoiding unnecessary expenses. It's a positive trait, suggesting good financial habits.
The story behind the word. The word 'thrift' comes from the Old Norse word 'þrift,' which meant 'prosperity' or 'success.' This, in turn, is related to the verb 'þrifask,' meaning 'to thrive.' So, originally, 'thrift' was about flourishing and doing well. Over time, the idea of achieving prosperity through careful management and wise use of resources became central to its meaning, leading to our modern sense of being economical and avoiding waste.
Word relationships
- frugality: The quality of being economical with money or food; thriftiness.
- economy: Careful management of available resources.
- prudence: The quality of being cautious and sensible.
- extravagance: Lack of restraint in spending money or using resources.
- prodigality: Wasteful extravagance, especially in spending money.
- wastefulness: The act or habit of wasting money or resources.
Commonly confused with
- stinginess: 'Thrift' is about careful management; 'stinginess' is about an unwillingness to spend or give, often to an excessive degree.
Word family
- thrifty (adjective): Using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully.
- thriftily (adverb): In a thrifty manner.
Collocations
- practice thrift
- habit of thrift
- thrift store
- thrift shop
Example sentences
- "Her grandmother's lifelong habit of thrift allowed her to save enough to buy a small house." Describing a positive financial habit.
- "The company's commitment to thrift helped it weather the economic downturn without layoffs." In a business context.
Memory hook
If you practice 'THRIFT', your finances will 'THRIVE'. Thrive with care
When not to use
Do not use 'thrift' to describe stinginess or miserliness; it implies careful management, not extreme reluctance to spend.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'thrift store' or 'thrift shop' directly refers to places where second-hand goods are sold cheaply, promoting economical shopping.
Related words
Explore more words
prudent, conserve, judicious, resourceful, efficient, stewardship
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