penny wise and pound foolish
1
used to describe someone who is extra careful about spending little amounts of money but has no problem with spending large amounts
The idiom "penny wise and pound foolish" originated in Britain and dates back to the 17th or 18th century. This phrase is used to describe someone who is careful or thrifty when it comes to small expenses or minor decisions but makes unwise and extravagant choices when it comes to larger, more important matters.
- He always buys the cheapest tools, but then they break quickly.He's penny wise and pound foolish.
- Last year, they opted for a cheaper construction company, but the building required expensive repairs later.They were penny wise and pound foolish.
- She's penny wise and pound foolish, trying to save money on groceries but spending extravagantly on designer clothes.