C1 adjective Neutral

economical

/ˌiː.kəˈnɒm.ɪ.kəl/

Economical describes the practice of using resources such as money, time, or materials carefully and without waste. It implies being efficient and cost-effective, often achieving a desired result while spending as little as possible.

Examples

3 of 5
1

It is much more economical to buy household supplies in bulk rather than individual packs.

It is much more economical to buy household supplies in bulk rather than individual packs.

2

The proposed infrastructure project must be assessed to ensure it is the most economical use of public funds.

The proposed infrastructure project must be assessed to ensure it is the most economical use of public funds.

3

If we want to save for the trip, we need to find an economical way to eat this week.

If we want to save for the trip, we need to find an economical way to eat this week.

Word Family

Noun
economy
Verb
economize
Adverb
economically
Adjective
economical
Related
economics
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Memory Tip

Remember that 'economical' has more letters (AL) than 'economic.' Think: 'Economical is AL-most free.'

Quick Quiz

The new hybrid engine is much more _______ than the older gasoline model, saving us hundreds in fuel costs.

Correct!

The correct answer is: economical

Examples

1

It is much more economical to buy household supplies in bulk rather than individual packs.

everyday

It is much more economical to buy household supplies in bulk rather than individual packs.

2

The proposed infrastructure project must be assessed to ensure it is the most economical use of public funds.

formal

The proposed infrastructure project must be assessed to ensure it is the most economical use of public funds.

3

If we want to save for the trip, we need to find an economical way to eat this week.

informal

If we want to save for the trip, we need to find an economical way to eat this week.

4

The poet is known for his economical style, conveying complex emotions with very few words.

academic

The poet is known for his economical style, conveying complex emotions with very few words.

5

Streamlining our supply chain will make our logistics operations more economical in the long run.

business

Streamlining our supply chain will make our logistics operations more economical in the long run.

Word Family

Noun
economy
Verb
economize
Adverb
economically
Adjective
economical
Related
economics

Common Collocations

economical use of economical use of
economical car economical car
economical way economical way
economical solution economical solution
economical price economical price

Common Phrases

economical with the truth

economical with the truth (euphemism for lying or omitting facts)

economical of effort

economical of effort

economical to run

economical to run

Often Confused With

economical vs economic

Economic relates to the economy of a country or region, while economical refers to saving money or resources.

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Usage Notes

Use 'economical' when you want to praise something for being efficient or low-cost. It is commonly used for appliances (low energy), cars (low fuel), and writing (concise).

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Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is using 'economic' when you mean 'economical.' For example, saying 'an economic car' is wrong unless the car relates to the study of economics; it should be 'an economical car.'

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Memory Tip

Remember that 'economical' has more letters (AL) than 'economic.' Think: 'Economical is AL-most free.'

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Word Origin

Derived from the Greek 'oikonomos,' which means 'manager of a household.'

Grammar Patterns

adjective + noun linking verb + economical it is + economical + to + infinitive
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Cultural Context

In many Western cultures, being 'economical' is seen as a virtue related to sustainability and environmental consciousness, not just being 'cheap.'

Quick Quiz

The new hybrid engine is much more _______ than the older gasoline model, saving us hundreds in fuel costs.

Correct!

The correct answer is: economical

Related Words

abmultant

C1

To diversify or branch out extensively from a single origin into multiple complex channels, forms, or applications. It describes the process of systemic expansion where a core entity multiplies its variety or reach.

microdoccide

C1

A specialized chemical substance or agent used to destroy or inhibit the growth of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses. It is primarily utilized in industrial, medical, and laboratory settings to ensure sterilization and prevent contamination.

circumminty

C1

The specific micro-atmosphere or olfactory 'halo' of coolness and freshness that surrounds an aromatic source, particularly mint plants or mentholated substances. It describes the spatial reach of a refreshing scent within a localized environment.

micromortious

C1

To calculate or estimate the minute probability of death associated with a specific action, typically measured in units representing a one-in-a-million chance. This verb is used to statistically assess the inherent danger of activities by quantifying potential mortality risks.

underpeline

C1

To provide a strong foundational support or to reinforce the underlying structure of an argument, theory, or physical entity. It describes the act of strengthening the core elements that hold a complex system or idea together to ensure stability.

misdictious

C1

To communicate or record verbal information inaccurately, specifically by confusing similar-sounding words or misinterpreting dictated instructions. It is primarily used in technical or test-based contexts to describe a failure in precise verbal transmission.

proscriber

C1

To officially forbid or prohibit something by law, decree, or social authority. It can also refer to the act of denouncing or condemning a person or group as harmful or dangerous.

triprehendful

C1

A triprehendful refers to a specific quantity of complex information or a situation that requires three distinct perspectives or levels of analysis to be fully grasped. It describes an amount of data or conceptual difficulty that is multifaceted and cannot be simplified into a binary explanation.

adcedency

C1

Adcedency refers to the state of rising to or holding a position of dominant power, influence, or governing authority. It describes the condition of being in control or having a superior status over others in a specific hierarchy or field.

postdynery

C1

To engage in the practice of lingering at a table after a meal has concluded to enjoy conversation and social bonding. This verb describes the transition from the physical act of eating to the intellectual or social act of communal reflection.

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