Spell Bee Word: parsimonious

Basic Details

Word: Parsimonious

Part of Speech: Adjective

Meaning: Unwilling to spend money or use resources; very stingy.

Synonyms: Stingy, miserly, cheap, tight-fisted

Antonyms: Generous, lavish, extravagant, open-handed

Idioms and Phrases

1. Penny wise, pound foolish: Refers to someone who is careful about small amounts of money but wasteful with larger amounts. Example: "He saved a lot on the cheap hotel but ended up spending more on transport, penny wise, pound foolish."
2. A penny saved is a penny earned: Implies that saving money is just as valuable as earning it. Example: "She believes a penny saved is a penny earned, so she always looks for discounts."

Usage Examples

Example 1: His parsimonious nature made him reluctant to share his toys with his friends.

Example 2: The parsimonious company refused to give its employees a Christmas bonus this year.

Example 3: Although she was parsimonious with her ingredients, her cooking was always delicious.

Fun Fact

The word "parsimonious" comes from the Latin word "parsimonia," which means "frugality" or "economy." It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe someone who is excessively reluctant to spend.

Famous Quote

"It is better to be generous than stingy, better to give than to hold back." – Jonathan Edwards

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "parsimonious" mean?

a) Very generous
b) Unwilling to spend money
c) Eager to share
d) Wealthy

Answer: b) Unwilling to spend money

2. Which of these is a synonym of "parsimonious"?

a) Lavish
b) Stingy
c) Generous
d) Extravagant

Answer: b) Stingy

3. Which word is the opposite of "parsimonious"?

a) Cheap
b) Miserly
c) Generous
d) Tight-fisted

Answer: c) Generous

4. Which sentence uses "parsimonious" correctly?

a) The parsimonious man bought gifts for everyone at the party.
b) The parsimonious chef offered very small portions at the restaurant.
c) The parsimonious child always shares his toys.
d) The parsimonious community works together to help others.

Answer: b) The parsimonious chef offered very small portions at the restaurant.

5. What does the idiom "a penny saved is a penny earned" mean?

a) Saving money is not important.
b) Saving money is as valuable as earning it.
c) Spending money wisely can yield more money.
d) It’s about spending as little as possible.

Answer: b) Saving money is as valuable as earning it.