How Do You Spell POUND FOOLISH?

Pronunciation: [pˈa͡ʊnd fˈuːlɪʃ] (IPA)

The phrase "pound foolish" is commonly used to describe someone who is foolishly wasting money. The spelling is straightforward: "pound" refers to the British currency, and "foolish" means lacking good sense or judgment. In IPA phonetic transcription, "pound" is pronounced as /paʊnd/ and "foolish" as /ˈfuːlɪʃ/. The stress is on the first syllable of "foolish." Together, the phrase is pronounced as /paʊnd ˈfuːlɪʃ/. Remember, don't be pound foolish and budget your money wisely!

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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POUND FOOLISH Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "pound foolish" describes a short-sighted approach or behavior wherein someone prioritizes immediate savings or frugality without considering the potential consequences or long-term costs. It typically implies that such an individual is willing to sacrifice quality, practicality, or overall effectiveness in order to save a small amount of money upfront.

    Originating from an old British currency unit, the "pound," which represents a unit of money, and the adjective "foolish," referring to a lack of intelligence or sound judgment, this phrase aptly reflects the concept of someone who exhibits poor financial decision-making skills. A person who is "pound foolish" might steer clear of investing in essential home repairs, opting instead for cheap quick-fix solutions that might only exacerbate the problem in the long run. Likewise, they may repeatedly choose the lowest-priced products or services despite their inferior quality or durability, only to find themselves spending more in the future due to constant repairs or replacements.

    This term serves as a cautionary reminder to be mindful of the potential ramifications of prioritizing immediate savings over long-term value. It suggests that making judicious and well-informed financial choices, while considering the bigger picture, can ultimately save more money in the long haul and yield greater benefits. Thus, being "pound foolish" warns against succumbing to shortsightedness and encourages a more balanced and practical approach when managing one's finances.

Common Misspellings for POUND FOOLISH

Etymology of POUND FOOLISH

The phrase "pound foolish" originates from a proverb that dates back to the 17th century. The word "pound" in this context refers to the British unit of currency, the pound sterling. The phrase essentially means being unwise or imprudent when it comes to managing money or making financial decisions. It suggests someone who focuses too much on minor expenses (pennies) while neglecting larger and more important financial matters (pounds). The proverb is often used to criticize those who prioritize immediate savings without considering the long-term consequences.

Idioms with the word POUND FOOLISH

  • penny wise and pound foolish The idiom "penny wise and pound foolish" refers to a person who is careful with small amounts of money but unwise with larger sums, ultimately leading to financial losses or wasted resources.