ECONOMICAL Synonyms: 51 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'economical' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of economical are frugal , sparing , and thrifty . While all these words mean "careful in the use of one's money or resources," economical stresses prudent management, lack of wastefulness, and use of things to their best advantage. // an economical health-care plan

Q: When could 'frugal' be used to replace 'economical'?

While the synonyms frugal and economical are close in meaning, frugal implies absence of luxury and simplicity of lifestyle. // ran a frugal household

Q: When is it sensible to use 'sparing' instead of 'economical'?

The meanings of sparing and economical largely overlap; however, sparing stresses abstention and restraint. // sparing in the offering of advice

Q: When can 'thrifty' be used instead of 'economical'?

The words thrifty and economical are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, thrifty stresses good management and industry. // thrifty use of nonrenewable resources

economical

adjective

ˌe-kə-ˈnä-mi-kəl

Definition of economical next

as in economizing

careful in the management of money or resources we have to be economical in our use of the camp's limited supply of electricity

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How is the word economical distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of economical are frugal, sparing, and thrifty. While all these words mean "careful in the use of one's money or resources," economical stresses prudent management, lack of wastefulness, and use of things to their best advantage.

an economical health-care plan

When could frugal be used to replace economical?

While the synonyms frugal and economical are close in meaning, frugal implies absence of luxury and simplicity of lifestyle.

ran a frugal household

When is it sensible to use sparing instead of economical?

The meanings of sparing and economical largely overlap; however, sparing stresses abstention and restraint.

sparing in the offering of advice

When can thrifty be used instead of economical?

The words thrifty and economical are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, thrifty stresses good management and industry.

thrifty use of nonrenewable resources

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of economical EVs will be the most economical option for consumers, and by a growing margin. —

Energy Innovation: Policy and Technology, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025 Lighting is readily available and often economical, from glass and brass to wood and ceramic. —

Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2025 If Washington prefers to see Syria weak and divided, a garrison of 2,000 troops is arguably an economical approach to keeping it that way. —

Steven Simon, Foreign Affairs, 3 Jan. 2025 Remaining Time The beachside setting informed the design of the hotel, and all materials are reclaimed or repurposed and locally sourced, including eco-friendly and economical driftwood that’s prominently employed throughout the property. —

Shivani Vora, Architectural Digest, 30 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for economical

Recent Examples of Synonyms for economical

Adjective

There is so much in the ether telling us not to be frugal.

— Lance Eliot, Forbes, 18 Jan. 2025
Newsom started out frugal, at 5.56% in 2019-20 and 5.87% the next year.

— John Seiler, Orange County Register, 17 Jan. 2025