Scrimp

To economize severely; to be frugal or thrifty, especially with resources like money or food. It implies making do with less, often due to necessity or a desire to save. The act of scrimping involves careful planning and a conscious effort to reduce spending or consumption. This can manifest in various ways, such as cutting back on entertainment, buying cheaper goods, or carefully managing energy usage. It is often associated with a period of financial constraint or a strong sense of wanting to accumulate wealth or protect assets for future needs.

Scrimp meaning with examples

• After losing his job, John had to scrimp on groceries, buying only the essentials and preparing meals at home instead of eating out. He meticulously tracked his expenses to stay within a tight budget, saving every penny he could.
• The family decided to scrimp on their vacation this year, choosing a less expensive destination and cutting back on activities. They packed their own lunches and searched for free entertainment options to stick to their limited travel budget.
• During the war, the citizens had to scrimp on rations, receiving only a limited amount of food each week. They grew their own vegetables and reused everything, making do with very little to survive the hard times.
• Knowing they wanted to save for their children's education, the couple decided to scrimp and save every month. They created a strict budget and avoided unnecessary purchases, prioritizing their financial goals over immediate gratification.