Tighten your belt

phrase

To spend less money because you don't have much.

After losing his job, he had to tighten his belt and spend less on unnecessary things.

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

The phrase doesn't involve actual belts, but symbolizes reducing expenses.

Now that I'm freelancing, I really have to tighten my belt.

Pro Tip 2/3

It's a figure of speech, so don't expect it to involve clothing changes.

Time to tighten our belts – no more dining out.

Pro Tip 3/3

It's usually used when financial situations worsen.

Since the factory closed, the whole town has had to tighten its belt.

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