Translation guide
The concept of thrift involves careful use of money and resources, avoiding waste. In Japanese, this is expressed through words for frugality, saving, and economical living.
thrift (frugality)
The quality of using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully.
The most common and general term for saving money or resources, often used in daily life.
To save on electricity bills, I don't use the air conditioner.
Emphasizes thrift as a virtue, often implying a disciplined, frugal lifestyle. Slightly more formal than 節約.
Refers to a simple, frugal lifestyle, often with a nuance of modesty and lack of luxury.
The idea of thrift as a positive personal quality or cultural value.
The spirit of 'mottainai'—a sense of regret over waste. This is a deeply ingrained cultural concept that encourages thrift.
With a thrifty mindset, I don't leave any food uneaten.
Often used in the context of '始末する' (to manage frugally) or '始末がいい' (being thrifty/economical). It implies careful management of resources.
A shop selling used goods, especially clothes, at low prices.
General term for a second-hand shop, often for various goods including furniture and electronics.
I found cheap furniture at this thrift store.
Specifically a shop selling used clothing. Very common for thrift clothing shopping.
A more formal term for a second-hand goods store, often used for electronics or books.
節約 is the everyday word for cutting costs or saving resources. 倹約 implies a more principled, often long-term frugality and is used in phrases like 倹約家 (thrifty person).
I save money to go on a trip.
I practice thrift to prepare for old age.
The concept of もったいない is central to Japanese attitudes toward thrift. It expresses regret over wasting anything, not just money. Using this word shows an understanding of Japanese values.
彼女は倹約家で、無駄遣いをしない。
She is a thrifty person and doesn't waste money.
質素な生活を心がけている。
I try to live a simple and frugal life.
彼は始末がいいから、給料が少なくても貯金できる。
He is thrifty, so he can save money even on a small salary.
週末に古着屋で掘り出し物を探すのが趣味だ。
My hobby is hunting for bargains at thrift stores on weekends.
I bought a used game at a thrift store.