This Week’s Grammar Mailbox Question:
Economic or Economical?
“Economic” and “economical”, though both adjectives, are NOT synonyms (= having the same meaning).
Economic (adjective): Related to the economy, finances, money matters or wealth.
Economical (adjective): Saving money or resources; not wasteful; thrifty or efficient.
Test yourself: Economic or Economical?
- This car has a powerful yet ______________________ engine that is suitable for high-mileage drivers.
- The ______________________deceleration will likely cause a further fall in unemployment.
- The host will interview the winners and losers from current ______________________situation.
- The most practical and ______________________ way to go around Hong Kong is by public transportation.
- It’s not about money – he is fine from an ______________________ perspective.
- The ______________________ forecast for next year is not good.
- There was a rise in unemployment due to the ______________________ downturn.
- Solar energy for your home is expensive in the short term but it is more ______________________ in the long term.
- The Chief Executive spoke mostly about ______________________ policy.
- He is being ______________________when doing grocery shopping, by comparing prices in at least three different places.