Translation guide
The English word "economical" can mean thrifty, cost-effective, or efficient. This guide helps learners express these nuances naturally in Japanese.
Describing a person or lifestyle that avoids waste and saves money.
A noun meaning 'thrifty person' or 'frugal person'. Commonly used to describe someone who is careful with money.
彼女は倹約家だから、無駄遣いをしない。
She is thrifty, so she doesn't waste money.
Means 'good at saving money'. Often used to compliment someone's money-saving skills.
母は節約上手で、いつも安い食材を買ってくる。
My mother is good at saving money and always buys cheap ingredients.
A na-adjective meaning 'economical' or 'thrifty'. Can describe both people and things, but may sound slightly formal.
彼はとても経済的な生活をしている。
He lives a very economical lifestyle.
Describing something that saves money or offers good value for the price.
A common casual term meaning 'good value' or 'a bargain'. Often used in shopping contexts.
このセットはお得だね。
This set is a good deal, isn't it?
The most direct translation for 'economical' in the sense of cost-saving. Neutral and widely used.
この車は燃費が良くて経済的だ。
This car is fuel-efficient and economical.
Short for 'cost performance', meaning 'good value for money'. Very common in casual conversation.
このランチはコスパがいい。
This lunch is great value for money.
Means 'relatively cheap' or 'economical' compared to the usual price. Often used in advertisements.
Describing something that uses minimal resources effectively.
Means 'efficient'. Often used when 'economical' implies efficiency rather than just saving money.
この方法は時間的にも経済的だ。
This method is economical in terms of time as well.
Literally 'there is no waste'. Describes something streamlined or efficient.
彼の説明は無駄がなくてわかりやすい。
His explanation is economical and easy to understand.
経済的 (keizaiteki) is a general adjective for 'economical' and can describe both people and things. 倹約 (ken'yaku) is a noun meaning 'thrift' or 'frugality', and 倹約家 (ken'yakuka) specifically refers to a thrifty person. Use 経済的 for objects/systems and 倹約家 for people.
The English word 'economic' (relating to the economy) is usually translated as 経済の (keizai no) or 経済上の (keizai-jō no). 'Economical' (thrifty, cost-saving) is 経済的 (keizaiteki). Be careful not to mix them up.
まとめ買いしたほうが経済的だ。
It's more economical to buy in bulk.
彼は言葉が少ない。
He is economical with his words.
Literal translation of 'economical with words' is unnatural; instead say 'he uses few words'.
まとめ買いすると割安になる。
Buying in bulk is more economical.