© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

economize

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪˈkɒnəmaɪz/

KK: /ɪˈkɒnəmaɪz/

intransitive verb
Definition

To use resources carefully and avoid waste, especially in spending money or using materials.


Example

We need to economize on our budget this month to save for the vacation.


Tense Forms

Past: economized

Past Participle: economized


Conversation
Sloth A
I've been trying to economize on groceries lately.
Sloth B
That's a good idea! How are you doing it?
Sloth A
I started meal planning to avoid waste and save money.
Sloth B
Smart move! It really helps to stick to a budget.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
save
conserve
reduce
Antonyms
waste
squander
expend
transitive verb
Definition

To use resources carefully and avoid waste, especially in terms of money or materials.


Example

We need to economize on our spending to save for a vacation.


Tense Forms

Past: economized

Past Participle: economized


Conversation
Sloth A
I’ve been trying to figure out ways to economize on my grocery bills.
Sloth B
That's a great idea! Have you thought about meal planning?
Sloth A
Yeah, I heard that can really help you economize your spending.
Root Explanation

Economize → It is formed from "oikonomia" (from Greek, meaning household management) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to become). The word "economize" means to make efficient use of resources, particularly in managing a household's finances.

Memory Tip

Think of managing a 'household' ('oikonomia') efficiently — that's why economize means to use resources wisely.

Visually Confused Words
venomize
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
For sure! It can save both time and money in the long run.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
save
conserve
reduce
Antonyms
waste
squander
expend