bargain star_border
/ˈbɑrɡɪn/ play_circle_filledThe word "bargain" can be used both as a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to an agreement between parties concerning the sale of goods at a price or terms that are considered advantageous. As a verb, it involves negotiating the terms of such an agreement, usually focusing on the price. Bargaining is a common practice in many cultures and is often seen in markets and business deals.
I got a great bargain on this laptop during the sale.
They are willing to bargain to reduce the price.
We struck a bargain after lengthy negotiations.
better deals star_border
/ˈbɛt̬ɚ dilz / play_circle_filledThe phrase "better deals" refers to agreements or purchases that are more advantageous or economically beneficial compared to others. It is often used in contexts where individuals or companies are looking to optimize their spending, save money, or obtain products and services of higher quality for the same or lower price.
I'm always on the lookout for better deals during the holiday sales.
By comparing prices online, she was able to find better deals on electronics.
bill star_border
/bɪl/ play_circle_filledThe word "bill" is a noun with multiple meanings, which are commonly encountered in various contexts. Here are some common English usages of "bill".
Invoice for services or goods: This is perhaps the most common usage, where "bill" refers to a statement of charges or costs provided after purchasing goods or services.
Can you please send me the bill for the repairs?
The waiter brought the bill after we finished our meal.
Legislative proposal: In a governmental context, a "bill" is a formal proposal for a new law, introduced and discussed in legislative bodies.
The new climate bill proposes strict regulations on industrial emissions.
Banknote or currency: In informal contexts, especially in American English, "bill" can also refer to paper money.
Do you have a five-dollar bill to pay for the parking?
Bird's beak: In zoology, "bill" refers to the beak of a bird, which is the hardened, often pointed part of a bird's mouth used
for eating, grooming, and other functions.
The toucan is famous for its colorful and large bill.
The pelican scooped up fish with its large bill
break the bank star_border
/ˈbreɪk ðə bæŋk/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "break the bank" is used to describe spending a large amount of money, often more than one can afford or has budgeted for. It can apply to various situations where financial resources are heavily strained, whether it's purchasing something expensive or funding a costly event. The expression conveys the potential risk of depleting one's financial reserves or going into debt.
Buying that luxury car is going to break the bank.
We want a nice wedding, but we don't want to break the bank.
He's worried that sending their kids to private schools will eventually break the bank.
budget cuts star_border
/ˈbʌdʒɪt kʌts/ play_circle_filledBudget cuts refer to the intentional reduction in the allocated funds for certain areas within an organization, often to manage financial constraints or redirect funds to other priorities. These cuts can impact various aspects of services and operations, leading to reduced service hours, layoffs, or the discontinuation of certain programs or projects.
Due to budget cuts, the public library reduced its operating hours.
The education department faced significant budget cuts this fiscal year.
Many programs were discontinued as a result of the budget cuts.
burn a hole in one's pocket star_border
/bɜrn ə hoʊl ɪn wʌnz ˈpɑkɪt/ play_circle_filledThe idiom "burn a hole in one's pocket" is used to describe a situation where someone feels an urgent desire to spend money as soon as they receive it. It evokes the image of money being so hot that it could literally burn through fabric, symbolizing the urgency and restlessness to use it. This phrase is often used in contexts where spending is done impulsively or extravagantly.
As soon as he got his paycheck, it started to burn a hole in his pocket, so he went out and bought a new smartphone.
She always has money burning a hole in her pocket; she can't resist shopping every weekend.
The bonus I received was burning a hole in my pocket, so I decided to splurge on a luxury vacation.
cash star_border
/kæʃ/ play_circle_filledCash, in its noun form, refers to money in the form of coins or banknotes, especially that used to make transactions. It represents physical money as opposed to money in bank accounts, credit, or any form of digital or electronic payment.
I prefer to pay in cash rather than using a credit card.
There's an ATM nearby where you can withdraw cash.
As a verb, "cash" means to convert a check or money order into cash, typically by presenting it at a bank or other financial institution. It can also mean to obtain money by redeeming some form of financial instrument.
Could you cash this check for me?
cash cow star_border
/ˈkæʃ ˌkaʊ/ play_circle_filledA cash cow in business terms refers to a product, business unit, or asset that consistently generates significant amounts of cash flow, usually providing the funds necessary to support other business activities. This term is particularly popular in discussions of portfolio analysis, where businesses must identify which products or units are their cash cows to ensure appropriate resource allocation and investment strategies.
The iPhone has been a cash cow for Apple for many years.
Many companies rely on one main cash cow to fund their other ventures.
It's important for a business to develop new products to support their existing cash cows.
cost an arm and a leg star_border
/ˈkɔst ən ˈɑrm ənd ə ˈlɛɡ/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "cost an arm and a leg" is a common English idiom that hyperbolically expresses the high cost of something. It suggests that the price is so steep that it's as if one had to give up very significant parts of oneself, such as an arm and a leg, to pay for it. This idiom is often used in informal contexts to emphasize the expense involved in purchasing or doing something.
The new car cost me an arm and a leg, but it's totally worth it.
I'd love to buy that designer dress, but it costs an arm and a leg.
Renovating the kitchen cost them an arm and a leg, but they are happy with the result.
deal star_border
/dil/ play_circle_filledThe word "deal" can be used both as a verb and a noun. As a verb, it primarily means to take action on something, especially to manage or handle a situation. As a noun, it often refers to an agreement or arrangement, usually involving business or trade. The term can also colloquially mean a significant amount of something or a situation that is considered favorable or advantageous.
Let's deal with the issue tomorrow.
He made a deal with the company to supply products at a reduced price.
I can't believe what a great deal I got on this car!
foot the bill star_border
/fʊt ðə bɪl/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "foot the bill" is commonly used in English to express the act of paying for something, usually in a context where the expenses might be significant or shared among a group. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, although it might sound slightly informal. The origin of the phrase is thought to come from the idea of "footing" (adding up) the total at the bottom ("foot") of a bill.
After the party, John offered to foot the bill.
The company will foot the bill for your travel expenses.
Who's going to foot the bill for the dinner tonight?
go dutched star_border
/goʊ ˈdʌtʃt/ | play_circle_filledThe phrase "go dutch" originates from the Dutch door, which is split into two equal parts, symbolizing equality in payment. It is a common practice in many cultures today, especially among friends or colleagues, to prevent any awkwardness over financial obligations during social outings. It promotes a sense of fairness and independence among participants.
Let's go dutch on dinner tonight; I insist we split the bill.
When they went out, they decided to go dutch to keep things simple.
Is it okay if we go dutch on lunch? I'm a bit short on cash today.
in the black star_border
/in ðə blæk/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "in the black" is used in business and finance to indicate a positive financial state, specifically profitability. It contrasts with "in the red," which means to be losing money. This terminology comes from the traditional color-coding system in financial accounting, where positive figures are written in black ink and negative figures in red ink.
After a difficult year, the company is finally back in the black.
Our goal is to be in the black by the end of the fiscal year.
The new product line helped them stay in the black despite market challenges.
in the red star_border
/in ðə rɛd/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "in the red" originates from the traditional accounting practice where negative figures were written in red ink in financial statements. It symbolizes a financial status where expenses exceed revenues, leading to a net loss. This term is commonly used in business and finance to indicate that a company or account is losing money.
The company has been in the red for the past three quarters.
After investing heavily in research and development, our startup found itself in the red.
If we do not increase sales, we will remain in the red and risk closure.
income star_border
/ˈɪn.kʌm/ play_circle_filledIncome refers to money received, typically on a regular basis, for work or through investments. It is a crucial economic indicator that helps to evaluate the economic health of an individual, family, or region. Different types of income include wages from jobs, profits from businesses, rents from properties, or dividends from investments.
Her annual income from her investments is quite substantial.
The average income in this region has increased over the last decade.
They rely on a steady income to support their family.
live paycheck to paycheck star_border
/lɪv ˈpɛɪˌtʃɛk tə ˈpɛɪˌtʃɛk/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "live paycheck to paycheck" describes a financial situation where an individual or family spends all of their monthly earnings on expenses, with little or nothing left for savings or discretionary spending. This term highlights the lack of financial security and the difficulty in managing unexpected costs or planning for the future.
Many families live paycheck to paycheck, finding it hard to save any money.
The economic downturn has forced more people to live paycheck to paycheck.
If you're living paycheck to paycheck, unexpected expenses can be a real challenge.
make a fortune star_border
/māk ə ˈfôrCHən/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "make a fortune" is commonly used to describe the act of earning a large amount of money, usually in a relatively short period of time or from a single venture. It often implies a level of success and financial gain that significantly surpasses ordinary income levels. The phrase can apply to various contexts, from investments and business ventures to winning a lottery or receiving a large inheritance.
He made a fortune in the stock market.
She hopes to make a fortune by launching her new tech startup.
They made a fortune after their invention became a commercial success.
make ends meet star_border
/māk ɛndz mit/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "make ends meet" is commonly used to describe a situation where an individual or family is able to cover all of their living expenses with the income they earn. It often implies a tight financial situation where there is just enough money to cover necessary expenses, without much or any leftover for savings or luxury items. The origin of the phrase is believed to come from the old practice of having to tighten one's belt to meet the ends together, symbolizing the need to live within one's means.
She has been working two jobs to make ends meet.
Many families struggle to make ends meet during economic downturns.
Making ends meet with a single income can be challenging.
money doesn't grow on trees star_border
/mʌni ˈdʌzənt groʊ ɒn triz/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "money doesn't grow on trees" is a common English idiom used to express the idea that money is not easily acquired and must be earned through work and effort. It is often used by parents and caregivers to teach children the value of money and the importance of budgeting and saving. The saying emphasizes the need for financial prudence and the reality that financial resources are limited.
You need to be careful with your spending; money doesn't grow on trees.
Whenever my kids ask for expensive toys, I remind them that money doesn't grow on trees.
Before you make any big purchases, remember that money doesn't grow on trees.
nickel and dime star_border
/ˈnɪk.əl ænd ˈdaɪm/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "nickel and dime" often comes up in contexts where small amounts of money are repeatedly charged, which can add up to a significant sum. It reflects a frustration or a tactic where minor costs are imposed frequently, either as a way of increasing revenue or as an annoyance. This term can be used in various scenarios, from business transactions to personal finance, and highlights the impact of seemingly insignificant charges.
They always nickel and dime you at that restaurant with extra charges for condiments and side dishes.
I hate being nickel-and-dimed every time I try to withdraw money from that bank.
Don't let them nickel and dime you into paying for all these unnecessary extras on your car lease.
on a shoestring star_border
/ɑn ə ˈʃuˌstrɪŋ/ play_circle_filled"On a shoestring" is a phrase used to describe accomplishing something with very limited financial resources. It often implies a sense of creativity and resourcefulness, as individuals or groups need to stretch their funds as far as possible. This expression is commonly used in contexts involving budgets, such as starting a business, traveling, or producing creative projects like films or events.
They managed to start their business on a shoestring budget.
She planned her entire trip on a shoestring and still had a great time.
The film was produced on a shoestring, but it turned out to be a huge success
pay through the nose star_border
/pay θruː ðə noʊz/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "pay through the nose" originates from a historical context where people were metaphorically (and sometimes literally) punished by having their nose slit if they did not pay their taxes or debts. Today, it is used figuratively to describe situations where someone feels they have paid too much for something, often in a scenario where they had little choice or were in a desperate situation.
I had to pay through the nose to get my car repaired after the accident.
Tickets for the concert were sold out, so we had to pay through the nose to get them from a scalper.
During the holiday season, many people pay through the nose for travel and accommodation.
pinch pennies star_border
/pɪntʃ pɛnɪz/ play_circle_filled"Pinch pennies" refers to the practice of being very careful with one's money, often out of necessity due to financial constraints. The phrase suggests a frugal approach to handling finances, where even small amounts of money are considered important to save. This expression is commonly used in contexts where budgeting and cost-cutting are discussed.
Since the economy turned, we've had to pinch pennies to make ends meet.
They've been pinching pennies to save up for a new car.
My grandmother taught me how to pinch pennies and make the most of what I have.
pricey star_border
/ˈpraɪ.si/ play_circle_filledPricey is an adjective often used to describe items or services that are considered to be expensive compared to similar offerings. It is not just about high cost but also implies a sense of being overpriced or not good value for money. People use "pricey" to express a subjective opinion about the cost of something, suggesting that it might be more than they are willing to pay or more than what they think the item should cost.
The new restaurant is a bit pricey, but the food is worth it.
That designer bag is really pricey; I can't afford it right now.
I avoid shopping at that store because it's too pricey for my budget.
rake in the dough star_border
/ˈreɪk ɪn ðə doʊ/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "rake in the dough" is a colloquial expression used to describe earning a lot of money, often quickly or easily. It uses the imagery of raking to suggest gathering large amounts of money, as one might rake leaves. This phrase is typically used in a positive context, highlighting successful financial outcomes.
After launching the new product, the company started to rake in the dough.
He raked in the dough with his latest investment in real estate.
The blockbuster movie raked in the dough at the box office.
save up star_border
/seɪv ʌp/ play_circle_filledSaving up refers to the practice of setting aside a portion of one's income or resources regularly to accumulate a significant amount over time. This financial strategy is commonly used for achieving specific goals, such as purchasing a major item, funding a trip, or ensuring financial security for future needs. The concept emphasizes discipline and planning in financial management.
I'm saving up for a new car.
She has been saving up to travel to Europe next summer.
We need to save up more if we want to buy that house.
spend a fortune star_border
/spɛnd ə ˈfɔrʧʌn/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "spend a fortune" is used to describe the act of spending a very large amount of money, usually more than what is considered average or necessary. It can apply to various situations, from purchasing expensive items like cars and houses to investing in events like weddings or luxury vacations. The phrase emphasizes the significant financial outlay involved.
He spent a fortune on that luxury car.
They spend a fortune every year on their vacations.
Spending a fortune on a wedding is quite common in some cultures.
spring for star_border
/sprɪŋ fɔr/ | play_circle_filled“Spring for” typically implies a gesture of goodwill or generosity, where the person paying takes on the expense willingly, often to treat others or to make a gathering more enjoyable. It can be used in various social contexts, such as meals, entertainment, or any occasion where one person opts to cover the costs for everyone involved.
He decided to spring for dinner after we all had a tough week.
I'll spring for the tickets if you handle the snacks.
She always springs for coffee when we meet up.
throw money around star_border
/θroʊ ˈmʌni əˈraʊnd/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "throw money around" typically conveys a negative connotation of spending money recklessly or extravagantly without much thought. It is often used to criticize someone's spending habits, especially when they spend large amounts of money on trivial or unnecessary things. The phrase can also suggest a way of showing off wealth or trying to impress others by spending money.
He likes to throw money around at parties to impress his friends.
Whenever she gets a bonus, she tends to throw money around instead of saving it.
Throwing money around won't solve deep-rooted problems, it only provides temporary relief.
tighten one's belt star_border
/ˈtaɪtn wʌnz bɛlt/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "tighten one's belt" metaphorically refers to the act of making one's belt tighter, which implies reducing the amount of food one consumes, symbolizing a need to cut back on expenses generally. It is often used in contexts where financial constraints require spending less and saving more. The phrase is derived from the practice of having to physically tighten one's belt when losing weight during times of scarcity or hardship.
With the recent job cuts, we'll all need to tighten our belts for a while.
After the holiday spending, I definitely need to tighten my belt to recover my savings.
The economic downturn has forced many families to tighten their belts.
Words List
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bargain
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better deals
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bill
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break the bank
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budget cuts
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burn a hole in one's pocket
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cash
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cash cow
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cost an arm and a leg
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deal
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foot the bill
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go dutched
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in the black
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in the red
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income
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live paycheck to paycheck
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make a fortune
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make ends meet
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money doesn't grow on trees
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nickel and dime
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on a shoestring
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pay through the nose
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pinch pennies
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pricey
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rake in the dough
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save up
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spend a fortune
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spring for
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throw money around
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tighten one's belt
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