Cheap vs Miserly

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 CheapMiserly
Meaninglow in price, not expensivenot willing to spend money
Register-formal
CEFR levelA1B1
Part of speechadjectiveadjective
Usage notesUsed to describe items or services that do not cost much. It can be informal or neutral but may have negative connotations if used to imply poor quality.Used to describe someone who is very careful with money and reluctant to spend. It can be negative in tone. Avoid in casual conversations.

Frequently asked questions: Cheap vs Miserly

What's the difference between "Cheap" and "Miserly"?

"Cheap" means: low in price, not expensive "Miserly" means: not willing to spend money

When should I use "Cheap" and "Miserly"?

"Miserly" is formal.

Are "Cheap" and "Miserly" the same CEFR level?

"Cheap" is at A1, "Miserly" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.