English Idioms

Money

Enhancing your understanding of money-related idioms can significantly improve your fluency in discussing financial matters. Our curated list of money idioms includes precise definitions, practical examples, and audio pronunciations to aid your learning. By mastering these idioms, you'll be able to speak more naturally and confidently about financial topics. Delving into the origins of these idioms will provide you with a deeper cultural understanding. Practice using these idioms in your conversations to become more articulate and persuasive in financial discussions. Start mastering money idioms today to elevate your English speaking skills and sound more like a native speaker.

Idiom	Meaning and Examples
Bet your bottom dollar	Meaning: To be extremely confident about something because you believe it to be certain or inevitable. Examples: You can bet your bottom dollar that the new product launch will be a massive success given the market research we've done. When it comes to predicting stock market trends, you can bet your bottom dollar that she will give you accurate insights. If he says he'll finish the project by Friday, you can bet your bottom dollar it will be done on time. Meaning and Examples of the "Bet your bottom dollar" idiom
Break the bank	Meaning: To spend a lot of money, often more than one can afford, on something. It usually suggests a significant financial outlay that could strain one's resources. Examples: Buying that luxury car might break the bank, so think carefully before making the purchase. Her wedding plans were so extravagant that they nearly broke the bank. While a vacation in Europe sounds amazing, it could break the bank if you're not careful with your budget. Meaning and Examples of the "Break the bank" idiom
Cash cow	Meaning: A highly profitable business or product that generates a steady flow of income over a long period of time. This source of revenue requires minimal maintenance or effort to continue being profitable. Examples: The subscription service turned out to be their cash cow, funding all their other innovations. For years, the old software was the company's cash cow, providing consistent revenue despite minimal updates. The blockbuster movie series became a cash cow for the studio, allowing them to invest in riskier projects. Meaning and Examples of the "Cash cow" idiom
Foot the bill	Meaning: To take responsibility for covering the cost of something, often when the expense is significant or unexpected. It implies that one person or entity will pay for the entire amount. Examples: Despite the budget cuts, the company decided to foot the bill for the annual holiday party. When the group went out for dinner, John generously offered to foot the bill, surprising everyone. The government had to foot the bill for the extensive flood damage repairs. Meaning and Examples of the "Foot the bill" idiom
In the black	Meaning: Being financially healthy, typically by having more income than expenses. Companies or individuals in this state are earning profits rather than experiencing losses. Examples: After years of struggling, the company is finally in the black, and investors are thrilled. Thanks to the new marketing strategy, our small startup has been in the black for three consecutive quarters. Despite the economic downturn, their prudent financial management kept them in the black. Meaning and Examples of the "In the black" idiom
In the red	Meaning: When a person or organization is experiencing financial losses or is in debt. It refers to a negative balance in financial accounts, often highlighted in red ink in accounting. Examples: After the unexpected expenses, our company has been in the red for the past two quarters. Despite their best efforts, the startup remained in the red, unable to break even. The restaurant found itself in the red after a series of unfortunate health inspections. Meaning and Examples of the "In the red" idiom
Money talks	Meaning: Having wealth or financial resources can influence decisions and actions in ways that mere words cannot. It emphasizes the power and persuasive nature of money in various situations. Examples: In politics, it's often said that money talks, as campaign contributions can significantly influence policy decisions. Though his qualifications were average, he secured the job because money talks; his family donated generously to the company. Despite public outcry, the controversial project went ahead because money talks, and investors were keen to see it through. Meaning and Examples of the "Money talks" idiom
Nest egg	Meaning: A sum of money that has been saved or set aside for the future, often for retirement or a significant life event. This financial reserve is usually built up gradually over time to ensure financial security and peace of mind. Examples: After years of diligent saving, Sarah finally felt secure with her nest egg as she approached retirement. John and Emily decided to invest a portion of their nest egg in real estate to diversify their financial portfolio. Despite the unexpected medical bills, Mark was relieved to have a substantial nest egg to fall back on. Meaning and Examples of the "Nest egg" idiom
Pay through the nose	Meaning: To be charged an exorbitant amount of money for something. Often, this involves paying much more than it's worth or feeling that the cost is unfairly high. Examples: When I saw the bill for the car repairs, I realized I had to pay through the nose for something that should have cost half as much. They paid through the nose to get front-row seats at the concert, but they felt it was worth it for the experience. He had to pay through the nose for the last-minute flight tickets because he had no other choice. Meaning and Examples of the "Pay through the nose" idiom
Penny for your thoughts	Meaning: This phrase is a polite way to ask someone what they are thinking about, especially when they appear deep in thought or unusually quiet. It expresses curiosity about their inner thoughts or feelings. Examples: As James stared out the window, lost in his own world, Maria asked, 'Penny for your thoughts?' After the meeting, I noticed Sarah was unusually silent. I approached her and said, 'Penny for your thoughts?' During our long walk, he seemed so distant. I finally broke the silence with a gentle, 'Penny for your thoughts?' Meaning and Examples of the "Penny for your thoughts" idiom
Save for a rainy day	Meaning: It suggests setting aside resources, especially money, for future situations when they might be needed. This practice is a form of preparation for unexpected challenges or emergencies. Examples: Despite earning a modest income, Jane always managed to save for a rainy day, ensuring she was never caught off guard by unexpected bills. After receiving a generous bonus, Mark decided to save for a rainy day instead of spending it all at once. With the economic downturn looming, the financial advisor recommended everyone save for a rainy day to safeguard against potential hardships. Meaning and Examples of the "Save for a rainy day" idiom
Time is money	Meaning: Time is incredibly valuable, sometimes equating to financial worth. Wasting time can be as detrimental as wasting money, and efficiency often leads to greater success. Examples: The project manager constantly reminded the team that time is money, urging them to meet deadlines efficiently. She declined the meeting invitation, believing that time is money and prioritizing her current tasks. For freelancers, understanding that time is money can lead to better project management and higher income. Meaning and Examples of the "Time is money" idiom