economical
- 01 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.
Simple“A small car is usually more economical to run than a large SUV.”
In context“The new manufacturing process proved far more economical, reducing energy consumption by thirty percent while maintaining the same output level.”
PitfallThe 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.
Antonyms - 02 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.
Simple“She was very economical and always looked for the best deals at the supermarket.”
In context“Raised during a period of scarcity, he remained economical throughout his life, rarely purchasing anything that was not strictly necessary.”
Antonymsextravagantspendthrift - 03 C1 Advanced
using only a few words to say something clearly.
using no more words or details than are necessary; concise in expression.
Simple“The author's economical writing style makes the story move very quickly.”
In context“The witness was remarkably economical with his testimony, providing only the essential facts without any unnecessary elaboration or emotional display.”
economical vs economic — Economic describes the system of trade and finance, while economical describes saving money or resources.
“That could make advanced tools less wasteful and more economical while preserving the extreme hardness required for industrial use.”
From economic + -al.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.