Money is an integral part of our lives and there are many common expressions and idioms that use the word money. In this article, we will explore some of the most common English expressions with ‘MONEY’ and understand what they mean along with example sentences.
Expressions with MONEY
Money can’t buy happiness
Meaning: No amount of wealth an ensure happiness.
Example: In spite of his fortune he was sad and lonely. Money can’t buy happiness!
This idiom means that simply having a lot of money or being rich does not guarantee that someone will be happy. There are many things in life that money cannot buy like relationships, health, peace of mind etc.
Money doesn’t grow on trees
Meaning: Money it is not easily obtained.
Example: Watch how you spend your money Tony. Money doesn’t grow on trees!
This expression conveys that money is not easy to earn and one should be wise in spending it. It reminds us that we need to work hard to earn money as it does not come easily.
Money makes the world go round
Meaning: Money motivates many activities.
Example: Things get done when people are paid. Money makes the world go round!
This idiom means money is a driving force behind most human activities and transactions. The modern economy and society functions on money as people work in exchange for payment.
Money is the root of all evil
Meaning: Money incites people to do evil things.
Example: The victim was murdered for money. As ever, money is the root of all evil.
This expression conveys the idea that money often causes people to abandon ethics and morals leading them to commit sins, crimes or other misdeeds. The desire for gaining and amassing wealth can make people greedy and corrupt.
Money laundering
Meaning: Concealing the source of illegally-obtained money.
Example: Certain countries have been accused of facilitating money laundering.
Money laundering refers to the process of hiding the source of money obtained through criminal means like drug dealing, terrorism, fraud etc by funnelling it through legitimate businesses.
Money pit
Meaning: Something that requires more and more money.
Example: The renovation of the charming old house turned out to be a money pit.
A money pit refers to an asset, project or possession that constantly drains money through high upkeep, maintenance or repair costs. More and more funds need to be devoted to sustaining it.
Money spinner
Meaning: A very successful way of making money.
Example: Washing cars was quite a money spinner when I was a student.
A money spinner is an activity, investment or business venture that generates a lot of profit. It brings in steady returns and proves to be a lucrative source of income.
Money talks
Meaning: People with a lot of money have power and influence.
Example: The owner is a millionaire and he’s very influential – money talks!
This idiom suggests that wealthy people often wield influence in society and power structures simply because of the extent of their riches. Money can buy access, position and leverage.
Get your money’s worth
Meaning: Get good value for the money you spend.
Example: With the travel pass included, we really got our money’s worth.
If you get your money’s worth, it means you feel the money spent was justified by the quality, utility and satisfaction derived from the product or service. You got full value in return of your expenditure.
Hush money
Meaning: Money paid to keep information secret or avoid a scandal.
Example: The politician had an extra-marital affair and paid hush money to keep it secret.
Hush money refers to money paid to suppress damaging or incriminating information, buy silence and prevent a scandal. It is often paid to cover up wrongdoings.
Have money to burn
Meaning: Have lots of money to spend on whatever you want.
Example: A leather jacket is no problem for Sarah. She’s got money to burn!
This expression implies having so much money that someone can spend or splurge lavishly on things without worrying about the cost. They have excess disposable income.
Money burns a hole in your pocket
Meaning: Be eager to spend money
Example: Emily has no savings at all. Money burns a hole in her pocket!
This idiom is used about people who have a tendency to spend money as soon as they get it rather than saving it. They have an urge to shop and buy things immediately.
Time is money
Meaning: Time is valuable and should not be wasted when you could be using it to make money.
Example: John always reminds his employees that time is money when they are idle at work.
This expression emphasizes that time should be used productively and judiciously especially when one is working. Wasting time equates to losing earning potential and money.
Conclusion
There are a wide variety of common expressions and idioms in English using the word ‘money’ that convey different meanings related to wealth, influence, value, ethical behaviour and prudent use of finances. Understanding these money expressions can help us use them appropriately in everyday conversational English. The way we speak about money provides insights into human behaviour, motivation and the forces that drive society and the economy.