Search
Select the dictionary language
penny wise and pound foolish
01
used to describe someone who is extra careful about spending little amounts of money but has no problem with spending large amounts
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "penny wise and pound foolish" and when to use it?
The idiom "penny wise and pound foolish" originated in Britain and dates back to the 17th or 18th century. This phrase is used to describe someone who is careful or thrifty when it comes to small expenses or minor decisions but makes unwise and extravagant choices when it comes to larger, more important matters.
Examples
He is penny wise and pound foolish with his car repairs.
