ə ˈpeni seɪvd ɪz ə ˈpeni ɜrnd
- Literally:
- Saving one penny is the same as earning one penny
What does "a penny saved is a penny earned" mean?
- Money not spent is just as valuable as money earned
- It's wise to save money rather than spend it unnecessarily
Examples
- I always pack my lunch—a penny saved is a penny earned.
- She learned that a penny saved is a penny earned from her grandmother.
- Remember, a penny saved is a penny earned, so don't waste your money.
Origin
Often attributed to Benjamin Franklin in 'Poor Richard's Almanack' (1737), though similar expressions existed before. Franklin's version was 'A penny saved is twopence dear' which evolved into the current form. The principle emphasizes the importance of frugality.
How to use it
A well-known proverb used to encourage saving money and thrift. Common in financial advice and parental guidance. Still widely used in North America.
Similar expressions
Opposites
Related idioms
- pay an arm and a leg
To pay an extremely high price
- make ends meet
To earn just enough money to cover basic expenses
- cost an arm and a leg
To be very expensive
- money doesn't grow on trees
Money is not easily acquired; it must be earned
- break the bank
To cost too much money
- hit the jackpot
To achieve great success or win something valuable
Use it in a practice answer
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