What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parsimony
Example
His parsimony was evident in the way he refused to buy anything that wasn't absolutely necessary. [parsimony: noun]
Example
She was known for her parsimonious habits, always looking for ways to save money. [parsimonious: adjective]
thriftiness
Example
Her thriftiness allowed her to save enough money to buy a house. [thriftiness: noun]
Example
He was praised for his thriftiness in finding ways to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality. [thriftiness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thriftiness is more commonly used than parsimony in everyday language. Thriftiness is a more positive term that suggests being resourceful and efficient in managing money or resources, while parsimony can have negative connotations of being overly stingy or miserly.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between parsimony and thriftiness?
Both parsimony and thriftiness are formal words that are typically used in more serious or academic contexts. However, thriftiness can also be used in everyday language in a more casual tone.