A penny saved is a penny earned

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase A penny saved is a penny earned, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression A penny saved is a penny earned used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "A penny saved is a penny earned"

Meaning

The idiom "A penny saved is a penny earned" is a proverbial saying that emphasizes the importance of being frugal and avoiding wasteful spending. It suggests that people should use the money they have with care, as saving a small amount of money now can be just as beneficial as earning more money later on. This phrase also hints at the idea that even the smallest amount of effort can be beneficial in the long run.

Etymology

This popular idiom originated in the 17th century, when Benjamin Franklin wrote the phrase in his book “The Way to Wealth”. The book was filled with a variety of advice on personal finances and it was particularly popular among the lower classes who did not have much money to begin with. In the book, Franklin wrote "a penny saved is a penny got" which is the basic concept of the phrase we use today.

Usage

This idiom is used to encourage people to be mindful of their spending habits and to practice frugality, even when it comes to small expenses. It is also a reminder to save money whenever possible and to invest it in the right places. The phrase is often used as an expression of gratitude towards someone who has saved money instead of recklessly spending it.

Example Sentences

• My grandmother always reminds me that "a penny saved is a penny earned" and to never waste my money on unnecessary items.
• I'm so glad I listened to my parents' advice and stopped spending money on things I didn't need. A penny saved is a penny earned!
• My dad always says "a penny saved is a penny earned" whenever I ask him for extra money.
• I'm going to put my money in a savings account; a penny saved is a penny earned after all!

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.