practice austerity
/ˈpræktɪs ɔːˈstɛrɪti/
Meaning
To 'practice austerity' means to live very simply, strictly limiting spending and consuming only essentials, typically due to difficult economic conditions. It is used both for individuals managing tight budgets and governments cutting public spending.
Examples
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During the recession, many households had to practice austerity to survive.
During the recession, many households had to practice austerity to survive.
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The government urged citizens to practice austerity during the national energy crisis.
The government urged citizens to practice austerity during the national energy crisis.
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After losing their primary source of income, they had no choice but to practice austerity.
After losing their primary source of income, they had no choice but to practice austerity.
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She decided to practice austerity for a year to pay off her student loans.
She decided to practice austerity for a year to pay off her student loans.
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While the company was restructuring, all departments were asked to practice austerity.
While the company was restructuring, all departments were asked to practice austerity.
Common Mistakes
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✗ They practiced severe austerities.
✓ They practiced severe austerity.
When referring to a general policy or lifestyle of cutting spending, 'austerity' is uncountable.
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✗ We must practice austerity of our budget.
✓ We must practice austerity.
'Practice austerity' is typically intransitive and does not take 'of [noun]' directly.
Related Expressions
Practice
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When inflation soared, the family had to ___ and stop eating out.
💡 live very frugally and cut spending
Show answer
practice austerity
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To clear your debt quickly, you may need to ___ for a few months.
💡 limit spending to essentials
Show answer
practice austerity