English Idioms for talking about money.
Learning a new language involves more than just grammar and vocabulary. Understanding idioms and expressions is key to truly grasping the nuances of a language. Idioms are phrases that have figurative meanings, often reflecting cultural and historical references. In the realm of finance, money-related idioms play a significant role in everyday conversation. In this blog post, we will explore some common idioms related to money, so let’s get started.
To tighten one’s belt
To cut one’s expenditure.
My parents have had to tighten their belts since retiring.
Learn English with Jo on YouTube
Money doesn't grow on trees
Money is not easily obtained or unlimited.
You need to save up; remember, money doesn't grow on trees.
To break the bank
To cost too much.
We need to find ways to keep the kids entertained this Summer without breaking the bank.
Penny pincher
A person who is excessively frugal or stingy with money.
My uncle is a penny pincher; he never buys anything unless it's on sale.
Ballpark figure
An approximate or rough estimate of a cost or value.
Can you give me a ballpark figure for the renovation of my house?
Pay through the nose
To pay a high or excessive price for something.
I had to pay through the nose for that designer handbag; it was worth it, though!
Recommended Book
English Idioms in Use- Intermediate
Amazon affiliate link
To throw money around
To spend money extravagantly or carelessly.
I need to stop throwing money around and start saving for a deposit for a flat.
To cost an arm and a leg
To be extremely expensive.
The engagement ring must have cost an arm and a leg!
To put your money where you mouth is
To take action to support your statements or opinions.
Enough talk! Put your money where your mouth is!
To live beyond your means
To spend more money than you receive as income.
She uses credit cards to use way beyond her means.
Cash in on
To take advantage of an opportunity to make money.
The entrepreneur cashed in on the growing trend of eco-friendly products.
The idioms listed above offer a glimpse into the world of financial expressions and demonstrate the creative ways in which language is used to convey ideas related to money. By familiarizing yourself with idioms related to money, you will be better equipped to understand and participate in conversations about finance and economics.