Synonym Chooser

How is the word thrifty distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of thrifty are economical, frugal, and sparing. While all these words mean "careful in the use of one's money or resources," thrifty stresses good management and industry.

thrifty use of nonrenewable resources

When is economical a more appropriate choice than thrifty?

Although the words economical and thrifty have much in common, economical stresses prudent management, lack of wastefulness, and use of things to their best advantage.

an economical health-care plan

When can frugal be used instead of thrifty?

The meanings of frugal and thrifty largely overlap; however, frugal implies absence of luxury and simplicity of lifestyle.

ran a frugal household

When would sparing be a good substitute for thrifty?

The words sparing and thrifty can be used in similar contexts, but sparing stresses abstention and restraint.

sparing in the offering of advice

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of thrifty These garments reflect the royal family’s thrifty mindset and offer a glimpse into their childhood years. Simon Perry, People.com, 10 Mar. 2025 After Benedict retired and Francis replaced him in 2013, the new pope spurned Castel Gandolfo and impressed the international media with his down-to-earth demeanor and thrifty trimmings. Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 21 Apr. 2025 What started out as a thrifty practice has become an unofficial commandment of Southern kitchens—don't waste one drop of tasty bacon grease. Josh Miller, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2025 Balancing Thrift and Pursuing Expensive Excitement The balance between being thrifty while seeking fun and adventure, has been playing out in the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, an event drawing thousands of young people to the California desert. Jack Kelly, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for thrifty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for thrifty
Adjective
  • The vehicles are not only economical but also quite eccentric.
    Brittney Melton, NPR, 8 May 2025
  • For the price, there are more economical choices that can also clean well.
    Terri Williams, Architectural Digest, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Green claims the way the three different motors work together means the ICE can run at 43.3% maximum thermal efficiency, which means even when running on combustion the fuel usage should be frugal.
    James Morris, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • First-generation wealth builders tend to be more frugal, focusing on saving and spending less.
    Monish Verma, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Thrifty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/thrifty. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on thrifty

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