A cheapskate is a stingy person who hates spending money, especially on others, even when they can afford it. They turn up at the café without a wallet and put the least into a group gift. The word is informal and clearly disapproving; neutrally, he doesn't like spending money.
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a cheapskate; such a cheapskate; don't be a cheapskate
- The character is such a cheapskate that he refuses to replace the broken kettle.
- Do not call someone a cheapskate just because they choose a cheaper ticket.
- In the story, the wealthy cheapskate expects everyone else to pay for the picnic.
What changed
First versionThe comic character is cheapskate who never buys a round.
RevisionThe comic character is a cheapskate who never buys a round.
Cheapskate gets confused with the adjective cheap and is put after is without an article. But it's a noun, so it needs a: is a cheapskate. With the adjective, it would be he is cheap.
Frugal means sensibly careful with money, and it's praise. Thrifty means good at saving and making things last. Cheap about a person means stingy, almost the same as cheapskate. Cheapskate is always a criticism.
Your turn
He earns a lot but always 'forgets' his wallet when the bill comes. He's ___.
Show the answer
a cheapskate — A man with money dodging the bill is being criticised for meanness, so a cheapskate. Thrifty praises sensible saving, and there's nothing to praise here.
Describe a stingy comedy character through one specific action. Use cheapskate and show what they refuse to pay for.
The wealthy cheapskate brought an empty basket and expected the others to provide all the food.
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