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be thrifty

[/bi ˈθrɪfti/]
verb phrase
ser econômico
1. to spend money carefully and not wastefully; to practice economy and frugality
She decided to be thrifty by shopping for discounts and avoiding unnecessary purchases.
Ela decidiu ser econômica comprando com desconto e evitando compras desnecessárias.
2. to use resources wisely and efficiently
Being thrifty during difficult financial times helps families manage their budgets.
Ser econômico durante tempos financeiros difíceis ajuda as famílias a gerenciar seus orçamentos.
NYC Slang
pinch pennies / watch your wallet
Synonyms
be frugalbe economicalbe prudentsave moneylive within one's meansbe parsimonious
Antonyms
be wastefulbe extravagantbe profligatespend recklesslysquander

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ser econômico
most common usage in Brazil
São Paulo
ser poupador
emphasizing savings aspect
Rio de Janeiro
ser econômico
colloquial usage common
Portugal
ser frugal
European Portuguese preference

Related Idioms & Phrases

a penny saved is a penny earned
live frugally
tighten one's belt
watch the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves
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