Translation guide
The English word "economical" can mean thrifty, cost-effective, or efficient. This guide helps learners express these nuances naturally in Japanese.
She is very economical.
For a person who is thrifty.
This car is economical.
For a product that saves money.
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.
She is thrifty, so she doesn't waste money.
Means 'good at saving money'. Often used to compliment someone's money-saving skills.
A na-adjective meaning 'economical' or 'thrifty'. Can describe both people and things, but may sound slightly formal.
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.
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.
Short for 'cost performance', meaning 'good value for money'. Very common in casual conversation.
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.
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.
an economical choice
my thrifty grandmother
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.
economic growth
It's more economical to buy in bulk.
He is economical with his words.
Literal translation of 'economical with words' is unnatural; instead say 'he uses few words'.
My mother is good at saving money and always buys cheap ingredients.
He lives a very economical lifestyle.
This car is fuel-efficient and economical.
まとめ買いすると割安になる。
Buying in bulk is more economical.
His explanation is economical and easy to understand.
an economical car