Cash is used in many phrases in English to express different things. These phrases, called “idioms,” make talking more fun and expressive. This post explores some popular cash idioms, explains what they mean, and shows how to use them in sentences.
Cash Idioms
Here are 20 cash idioms in English with the meaning and example sentence for each.
1. Break the bank
Meaning: To cost a lot of money.
Example: Buying that car will break the bank.
2. Cash cow
Meaning: A reliable source of money.
Example: That shop is a real cash cow.
3. Cash in one’s chips
Meaning: To die or give up.
Example: He finally cashed in his chips.
4. Foot the bill
Meaning: To pay for something.
Example: Dad had to foot the bill.
5. Make a quick buck
Meaning: Earn money quickly.
Example: He’s out to make a quick buck.
6. Pay dirt
Meaning: A profitable discovery.
Example: They hit pay dirt with that idea.
7. Cash on the nail
Meaning: Immediate payment.
Example: He wants cash on the nail.
8. Pinch pennies
Meaning: To save money.
Example: She’s always pinching pennies.
9. Splash the cash
Meaning: Spend a lot freely.
Example: They splashed the cash on vacation.
10. Tighten one’s belt
Meaning: Spend less money.
Example: It’s time to tighten our belts.
11. Bring home the bacon
Meaning: Earn the family income.
Example: He brings home the bacon.
12. Money talks
Meaning: Money can influence.
Example: In business, money talks.
13. Penny for your thoughts
Meaning: Ask someone’s thoughts.
Example: A penny for your thoughts?
14. In the red
Meaning: To be in debt.
Example: Their accounts are in the red.
15. Rolling in dough
Meaning: To have a lot of money.
Example: They are rolling in dough.
16. For a song
Meaning: Very cheaply.
Example: Bought it for a song.
17. Cash-and-carry
Meaning: Pay and take immediately.
Example: It’s a cash-and-carry deal.
18. Put your money where your mouth is
Meaning: Support your words with actions.
Example: Time to put your money where your mouth is.
19. As good as money in the bank
Meaning: Something sure or reliable.
Example: His promise is as good as money in the bank.
20. Save for a rainy day
Meaning: Save money for future needs.
Example: Always save for a rainy day.
