Penny-pinched

Penny-pinched describes a person or behavior characterized by extreme frugality and reluctance to spend money, even on necessary or worthwhile items. This can manifest as constantly seeking the lowest prices, being unwilling to spend money on small luxuries, or cutting corners to save costs. The term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of generosity, a preoccupation with saving, and sometimes even a miserly attitude. The motivation behind penny-pinching can range from genuine financial constraints to a deeply ingrained habit or personality trait. It implies a degree of careful financial management that borders on excessive caution in spending. Someone considered penny-pinched might prioritize saving over comfort, convenience, or experiences.

Penny-pinched meaning with examples

• Despite having a comfortable income, my uncle is notoriously penny-pinched. He refuses to eat out, buys only generic brands, and reuses tea bags, much to his family's mild embarrassment. He views spending as a necessary evil, prioritizing savings above all else. He is likely to take any freebie even if he doesn't need it.
• The travel agency’s success was limited because the penny-pinched marketing strategy relied heavily on free social media and minimal paid advertising, which proved ineffective in reaching a wider audience and building the brand.
• She was hesitant to replace her worn-out shoes even though they were causing her pain; this penny-pinched approach to personal expenses highlighted her careful financial habits, though her friends felt it was an unnecessary sacrifice.
• The start-up's penny-pinched approach meant they had very little to spend on office furniture, creating an uncomfortable environment. The tight budget had also a negative impact on staff morale, as resources were scarce and requests often went unfulfilled.
• Instead of hiring experienced consultants, the company employed recent graduates with low salaries, illustrating a penny-pinched approach focused solely on minimizing expenditure and cutting costs for short-term gains.