# frugal

/ˈfɹuɡəɫ/ (US) · /fɹˈuːɡəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/frugal
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. careful with money

adjective · CEFR C1 · General-service

careful to use only as much money or food as is necessary.

For teachers: economical in use or expenditure; prudently saving or sparing rather than wasteful.

- He has always been frugal with his earnings, saving most of his paycheck each month.
- Despite his immense wealth, the entrepreneur maintained a frugal lifestyle, preferring modest accommodations to the luxury hotels his peers frequented.

### 2. simple and inexpensive

adjective · CEFR C1 · General-service

small, simple, and costing very little money.

For teachers: characterized by or reflecting economy; costing little and lacking unnecessary ornament or luxury.

- After a long day of hiking, they enjoyed a frugal meal of bread and cheese.
- The monks lived on a frugal diet of vegetables and grains, viewing culinary indulgence as a distraction from their spiritual duties.

## Examples

- He lives a frugal life and saves most of his salary.
- By being frugal during their early careers, the couple managed to pay off their mortgage ten years ahead of schedule.
- The philosopher advocated for a frugal existence, arguing that true freedom is found in reducing one's desires rather than increasing one's wealth.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.