11 Expressions Related to “Money”
Money talks—and in English, it often speaks through colorful idioms and expressions! These 11 expressions related to money go beyond dollars and cents to describe wealth, spending, value, and financial stress. Used in movies, conversations, and even business settings, these phrases help you sound fluent, natural, and culturally aware.
Common Ways to Talk About Money in English
Spending & Affordability
- Break the bank Means to cost so much that it causes financial strain (usually used in the negative). Don’t worry—this dinner won’t break the bank.
- Cost an arm and a leg Describes something extremely expensive. That designer bag cost an arm and a leg!
- On a tight budget Means you have very little money to spend. I’d love to travel, but I’m on a tight budget this year.
Value & Profit
- Worth every penny Says something is expensive but totally worth the price. That concert ticket was pricey—but worth every penny!
- Cash cow A product, job, or business that consistently makes a lot of money. Their mobile app is a cash cow—it earns millions every month.
- Money doesn’t grow on trees A saying reminding someone that money is limited and hard to earn. You want a new phone every month? Money doesn’t grow on trees!
Financial Stress & Luck
- Make ends meet Means to earn just enough money to pay for basic needs. With rent so high, it’s hard to make ends meet.
- Hit the jackpot To win a large amount of money—or experience sudden great success. He hit the jackpot with that startup investment!
- Be broke A casual way to say you have no money. I can’t go out—I’m completely broke until payday.
Saving & Spending Habits
- Saving for a rainy day Putting money aside for future emergencies. We’re saving for a rainy day—just in case.
- Burn a hole in your pocket Said when someone can’t stop spending money they just got. That bonus is already burning a hole in his pocket!
Real-Life Dialogues
Friend A: I just bought concert tickets!
Friend B: How much were they? Cost an arm and a leg?
Friend A: A bit—but they’re worth every penny!
Friend B: Lucky you! I’m broke until Friday.
Parent: You want $100 for shoes? Money doesn’t grow on trees!
Teen: But these are on sale!
Parent: Fine—but only because you’ve been saving for a rainy day.
Quick Tips: Using Money Expressions Naturally
| Expression | When to Use It | Example Context |
|---|---|---|
| Break the bank | When something is affordable | Shopping, dining, travel plans |
| Worth every penny | Praising a high-quality purchase | Concerts, gadgets, vacations |
| Make ends meet | Talking about financial struggle | Work, rent, cost of living |
| Hit the jackpot | Describing sudden success or luck | Lottery, investments, job offers |
Practice Tip
Next time you talk about shopping, budgeting, or a big purchase, try using one money idiom—like “worth every penny” or “on a tight budget.” It’s a fun way to sound like a native speaker!
Why This Matters
- These 11 expressions related to money are everywhere—in ads, movies, news, and daily chats.
- They help you discuss finances with nuance, humor, and cultural fluency.
- Using idioms shows you’re moving beyond textbook English into real-life communication.
Money may be universal—but how we talk about it in English is full of personality. Try using one of these 11 expressions related to money this week, and add flair to your financial fluency. Happy learning! 😊
