ENGLISH
REFERENCE

economical

adj.
US //ˌɛkəˈnɑmɪkəɫ// UK //ˌiːkənˈɒmɪkəl// eco·nom·i·cal
  1. 1 saving money or resources (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    using very little money, fuel, or time to get a result.

    providing good value or service in relation to the amount of time, money, or energy spent.

    Example

    A small car is usually more economical to run than a large SUV.

    Example

    The new manufacturing process proved far more economical, reducing energy consumption by thirty percent while maintaining the same output level.
    Pitfall
    The country is in an economical crisis.
    The country is in an economic crisis.

    Use 'economic' for things related to the whole economy of a country. Use 'economical' for things that save money or resources.

  2. 2 careful with money (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    describes a person who is careful not to spend too much money or waste things.

    characterised by thrift and the avoidance of waste; prudent in financial management.

    Example

    She was very economical and always looked for the best deals at the supermarket.

    Example

    Raised during a period of scarcity, he remained economical throughout his life, rarely purchasing anything that was not strictly necessary.
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  1. 3 using few words (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    using only a few words to say something clearly.

    using no more words or details than are necessary; concise in expression.

    Example

    The author's economical writing style makes the story move very quickly.

    Example

    The witness was remarkably economical with his testimony, providing only the essential facts without any unnecessary elaboration or emotional display.
    • wordy
    • verbose
Origin

From economic + -al.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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