Scrimp

usgb/skrɪmp/
verb

To be very careful with money and spend as little as possible.

She had to scrimp and save for years to afford her own house.
Visual representation of "scrimp" - To be very careful with money and spend as little as possible

Often appears as...

  • scrimp and save
  • scrimp on food
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "scrimp"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Financial Focus

Use 'scrimp' when discussing efforts to reduce spending, often implying some hardship.

Illustration for Financial Focus
After losing his job, he started to scrimp on luxuries.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Miserly

'Scrimp' suggests prudent saving, not being stingy or miserly, which has a negative tone.

Illustration for Not Miserly
She's not cheap; she's just scrimping for her college fund.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Temporary Measure

Using 'scrimp' often refers to a temporary situation, unlike 'frugal', which implies a lifestyle.

Illustration for Temporary Measure
They scrimp on daily expenses to afford a summer vacation.
Visual representation of the word "Scrimp"

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