Common English collocations with money.
Are you an English learner striving to enrich your vocabulary and speak with confidence about everyday life? Understanding and learning collocations—words that naturally go together— can be important when it comes to mastering English fluency.
So let’s look at some common English collocations with ‘money.’ As you review the chunks, think about how you could use them in your own life and try and create a sentence relevant to you.
Short of money
Meaning: This collocation describes a situation where someone doesn't have enough money for their needs.
Example: I wanted to buy a new phone, but I'm short of money after paying the rent.
Waste money
Meaning: To spend money on something unnecessary or unwise.
Example: Buying designer clothes just to impress others is a sure way to waste money.
Pocket money
Meaning: A small amount of money given regularly for personal expenses, typically to children.
Example: Every week, I receive pocket money from my parents to spend on snacks and entertainment.
Recommended Book
English Collocations in Use - Intermediate
Amazon Affiliate link
Money doesn’t grow on trees
Meaning: A common idiom meaning that money is not easily obtained and must be earned through hard work.
Example: I know you want the latest smartphone, but remember, money doesn't grow on trees. You'll need to save up for it.
Make money
Meaning: To earn or generate income.
Example: She decided to start her own business to make money doing what she loves.
Dirty money:
Meaning: Money obtained through illegal or unethical means.
Example: The authorities seized a large sum of dirty money from the criminal organisation.
Throw money down the drain
Meaning: To waste money on something that provides no value or benefit.
Example: Buying that expensive gym membership and never using it is like throwing money down the drain.
Old money
Meaning: Wealth that has been inherited or passed down through generations, typically associated with established, wealthy families.
Example: The aristocratic family lived in a mansion filled with antiques and fine art, showcasing their status as old money.
New money
Meaning: Wealth that has been recently acquired, often through entrepreneurship, business success, or other means, contrasting with "old money."
Example: The tech industry has created many individuals with new money, who have quickly risen to prominence through their innovative ideas and ventures.
Earn money
To receive money in exchange for work or services rendered.
Example: He earns money by tutoring students in mathematics after school.
Hard-earned money
Meaning: Money that has been obtained through hard work and effort.
Example: I'm careful with my hard-earned money and only spend it on things I really need.
Easy money
Meaning: Money earned with little effort or difficulty.
Example: Some people mistakenly believe that online surveys offer easy money, but it often requires significant time and effort.
Spend money
Meaning: To use money to buy goods or services.
Example: It's important to spend money wisely and prioritise essential expenses over luxuries.
Understanding and incorporating these collocations into your vocabulary will enhance your ability to discuss financial matters confidently and fluently in English. Keep practicing and applying these expressions in your conversations to communicate effectively and achieve your language learning goals.