Close-Fisted Idiom: Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

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Close-Fisted Idiom

The idiom close-fisted refers to someone unwilling to spend money on something. A greedy person can be notified through this idiom. In other words, this idiomatic expression means someone who holds on to money very tightly and is not at all generous in spending money even for important things. A stingy person is attributed to this idiom. This phrase or adjective describes the character of an individual who does not wish to share or spend freely especially when it comes to financial matters.

Also read: Face the Music Idiom Meaning, Examples, and Synonyms.

Usage with Examples

The close-fisted idiom is generally used in informal scenarios to describe or characterize a person who is stingy or tight-wad in spending money. Someone who cannot spend money even if they have it is said to be close-fisted. It is used to make a general statement about the nature of a greedy and stingy person.

Following are some example sentences of the given idiom:

  • Despite being rich, Joe is close-fisted as he never pays or splits any bills while we hang out at the nearby restaurant.
  • Joshua never gives tips to the service staff and this reflects his close-fisted behavior. 
  • The close-fisted behaviour of the company obstructed its growth. 

Also read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences, and Meaning.

Synonyms for Close-Fisted Idiom

Mentioned below are some synonyms and similar words to the given idiomatic phrase:

  • Stingy
  • Tight-handed
  • Close-handed
  • Tight-fisted
  • Mean
  • Miserly
  • Penny-pinching
  • Thrifty
  • Frugal
  • Tightwad
  • Grasping
  • Avaricious

Close-Fisted Idiom Meaning Quiz

Which of the following idiomatic expressions describes the character of a person who is not generous in the case of spending money?

  1. Open-hearted
  2. Close-fisted
  3. Free-spirited
  4. Fork Over

Ans: b. Close-fisted.

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FAQs

What does the “close-fisted” idiom mean?

The idiom “close-fisted” describes a person who is stingy or unwilling to spend money. They are often seen as miserly or tight-fisted.  

Where does the idiom come from?

The term “close-fisted” originates from the image of someone clutching their money tightly in their fist, reluctant to part with it.

Are there any synonyms for “close-fisted”?

Yes, here are a few synonyms:
Stingy  
Tight-fisted  
Miserly  
Penny-pinching  
Parsimonious

Is there an opposite to “close-fisted”?

Yes, the opposite of “close-fisted” is “open-handed,” which describes someone generous and willing to spend money.

That was all about the ‘close-fisted’ idiom meaning and examples. Hopefully, you understood the concept of where to use this idiom. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.

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