saving

The word “saving” means a reduction in the amount of money, time, or effort spent. In plain terms, money kept back, a reduction in cost, or (formally) an exception.

“Saving” is pronounced SAY-vihng (/ˈseɪ.vɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “saving” used in a sentence: “Buying in bulk gives you a decent saving.”

Depending on how it is used, “saving” can be a noun, an adjective and a preposition.

“Saving” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Saving” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a reduction in the amount of money, time, or effort spent.

A saving is a single reduction — the money, time, or effort you avoid spending, as in 'a saving of £20.' Savings, usually plural, refers to money you have set aside and accumulated over time. In short, a saving is what you cut; savings are what you keep.

Buying in bulk to cut your grocery bill produces a saving, as does taking a shortcut that trims your journey time. A discount, a lower energy tariff, or automating a slow task all create savings in money, time, or effort — the resource you no longer have to spend.

Savings are usually grouped by the resource they conserve: cost savings reduce money spent, time savings shorten how long something takes, and efficiency or energy savings lower the effort or power required. The same action can deliver several at once — an automated process may save both hours and money.

Generally yes. A saving implies efficiency, thrift, and getting the same result for less, which most people regard as sensible and desirable. It carries none of the negativity of loss or cutting corners, because the outcome is preserved while the cost falls. Businesses and households alike prize savings.