frugal
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “frugal” mean?
adjective.sparing or economical with regard to money or food.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in passages discussing financial responsibility, personal habits, or lifestyle choices. It emphasizes a positive connotation of being wise with resources, differentiating it from similar terms like "stingy," which implies a negative or excessive reluctance to spend.
Common Confusions
Frugal implies a positive and thoughtful management of resources, while stingy usually suggests an excessive and negative reluctance to part with money or possessions.
Do not choose frugal if the context emphasizes lavishness or excess rather than being sparing or economical with regard to money or food.
Example Sentences
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The frugal student lived on rice and beans all semester.