adjective HSK 5
Traditional 摳門
stingy · miserly · cheap
Meaning
This colloquial term describes someone who is extremely reluctant to spend money, often to an unreasonable degree. It carries a negative connotation and suggests someone who is excessively frugal or unwilling to share.
Usage
This is an informal, somewhat critical term used in everyday conversation. It's often used to tease friends or complain about someone's stinginess. Native speakers might use it humorously among close friends, but it can be insulting if used seriously. The term is more casual than 吝啬 (lìnsè).
Examples
- 01他太抠门了，请我们吃饭从来不去好餐厅。, .He's too stingy; when he treats us to a meal, he never goes to a nice restaurant.
- 02别那么抠门，偶尔花点钱享受生活吧。, .Don't be so cheap; spend a little money to enjoy life once in a while.
Characters
Common collocations
- 抠门儿stingy (with erhua)
- 太抠门了too stingy
- 有点抠门a bit stingy
Antonyms
Origin
The literal meaning 'to dig at the door' metaphorically suggests someone who won't even open their door (wallet) easily, implying extreme reluctance to let money out.