German Conversation · Level 77
59 words
German word
sparsam
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈʃpaːɐ̯zaːm/
Meaning
- adjectivethrifty
Example
Er ist sparsamer als früher.
He is thriftier than he used to be.
More examples
Während der Dürre sollten wir sparsam mit Wasser umgehen.
During the drought, we should use water sparingly.
Core concept
Using only what is needed, with little waste or excess.
Common phrases
sparsam mit Ressourcen umgehen
use resources sparingly
sparsam im Verbrauch
economical in consumption
Similar words
ökonomisch: Efficient in the use of resources, time, or money.
wirtschaftlich: Practical and cost-effective when resources or funds are limited.
geizig: Unwilling to spend money, including on necessary expenses.
knauserig: Excessively stingy in a way that annoys or inconveniences others.
Definition in German
Wenig verbrauchend; Ressourcen oder Geld schonend verwenden
Word origin
Sparsam combines the verb sparen, meaning to save or economize, with the adjective-forming suffix -sam, meaning characterized by an action.
Usage tips
- Sparsam is generally positive for careful use of money or resources, whereas geizig more strongly suggests unwillingness to spend or share.
Other meanings
- economicaladjective
- sparseadjective
Opposites
- verschwenderischwastefuladjective
Related words
- Sparsamkeitthriftnoun