Chintziness

Chintziness refers to a marked unwillingness to spend money; stinginess. It often involves a focus on small expenses and a reluctance to be generous, even when one has the financial means to do so. This behavior can manifest in various ways, such as haggling over prices, avoiding lavish spending, or constantly searching for discounts. It is a trait characterized by frugality to an excessive degree, sometimes to the point of being considered miserly or tightfisted. The underlying motivation is typically the desire to save or accumulate wealth. It's also often associated with an aversion to waste and an insistence on getting the best possible value for every expenditure, regardless of its size or impact on others.

Chintziness meaning with examples

• His reputation for chintziness preceded him; everyone knew he'd bring a sandwich from home rather than buy lunch. This made his colleagues hesitant to suggest group outings, fearing he'd opt out or bring up the cost with a tight-lipped frown. His constant coupon clipping became a source of both amusement and mild annoyance. He always looked for the absolute minimum in order to keep spending down.
• The family's chintziness was evident in their careful budgeting and reluctance to upgrade their aging appliances. They’d repair rather than replace, often utilizing hand-me-downs. This approach to life, while admirable from a financial perspective, also meant they frequently missed out on modern comforts. Even Christmas presents were carefully selected for their practical value.
• Her chintziness was most apparent when dining out. She'd scrutinize the menu, favoring the cheapest items and always requesting tap water. Tips were kept to a minimum, with her always using the same fixed percentage regardless of the service provided. Her companions found it difficult to enjoy meals with her, due to her constant focus on the bill and expenses.
• The company's chintziness became a detriment to employee morale. Over time, the constant pressure to cut costs led to outdated equipment and a lack of resources. Despite record profits, the refusal to invest in employee perks like better benefits or training created resentment and ultimately led to high turnover, as better offers were accepted.