money doesn't grow on trees essay

What Does Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees Mean?

Home » Phrase and Idiom Dictionary » What Does Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees Mean?

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees Meaning

Definition: Money must be earned and does not come freely.

Typically, this idiom describes the idea that someone should be careful of how they spend his or her money.

Origin of Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees

It is unclear exactly how this idiom originated. However, it appeared in print as early as the 1800s. Here is an early example of the phrase in the Statesville Landmark newspaper from 1891

• Money doesn’t grow on trees here yet.

Examples of Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees

Our first example dialogue shows a sister using the idiom in a conversation with her brother about their weekly budget.

Luke: Look at this new TV I bought! Isn’t it great?

Ella: Great? Are you serious? We can’t afford a new TV!

Luke: Yeah, yeah, I know. But look how good this TV is! It’s huge!

Ella: You have to return that. Money doesn’t grow on trees, you know. We won’t have money to buy food if you keep that TV.

Luke: We’ll take it out of our savings.

Ella: Absolutely not.

Ray: I don’t understand how these two people can live in such a huge apartment in New York City when one of them is a waitress, and the other is unemployed. It’s totally unbelievable.

Jackie: It doesn’t have to be believable. It’s a TV show!

Ray: I know. But all I’m saying is that money doesn’t grow on trees. There’s no way that they could afford this apartment on their budget.

Jackie: Just watch the show.

More Examples

• Money doesn’t grow on trees — unless you’re a millionaire who wants to pay it forward. – New York Daily News
• Money doesn’t grow on trees so don’t joke and say it does or repeat any of the other little white lies we think are cute. Just don’t lie about money, Beard says. “As kids get older, don’t lie and tell your kids that you don’t have money to buy cookies, or a movie ticket, and then turn around and purchase a new television.”– Washington Post

The phrase money doesn’t grow on trees is a proverb that stresses the importance and value of hard work and encourages people to make wise spending decisions.

Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees

Money doesn’t grow on trees is a common expression that means money is a limited resource and is not easily acquired, so it shouldn’t be spent in a careless manner.

“Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees” – Its Origin

From a tiny seed to a fully grown tree, this process can take years, perhaps even a decade or longer to complete. Eventually, though, the tree will grow big and strong and it will produce many leaves. In fact, depending on its size, a tree can have thousands of leaves growing on its branches! And if it’s a fruit tree, it can also produce a bunch of food as well in the right season. The point? The leaves and the fruit that the tree produces are plentiful and freely available; all a person has to do is go out and take what they want and more will grow back later. Simple and convenient!

Anyway, how old is this expression? Compared to other phrases, this one doesn’t look that old. The earliest I’ve seen it in print is near the end of the 19th century. For example, it appears in the Statesville Landmark newspaper from 1891:

“Money doesn’t grow on trees here yet.”

Money Sayings This phrase is on our list of money sayings. If you want to see more like it, give that page a look.

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees: Understanding and Using the Proverb Correctly

by English Plus | Jul 22, 2024 | Proverbs

Understanding the Proverb

Appropriate use of the proverb, when not to use the proverb, practical examples, expand your vocabulary, let’s talk.

The proverb “Money doesn’t grow on trees” is a timeless reminder of the value and scarcity of money. It’s a saying that highlights the importance of financial responsibility and the effort required to earn and manage money wisely. In this article, we’ll delve into the meaning of this proverb, explore when it’s appropriate to use, when it might be better to avoid, and provide practical examples to illustrate its proper context.

“Money doesn’t grow on trees” suggests that money is not easily obtained and requires effort, hard work, and careful management. It underscores the reality that financial resources are finite and should be valued and spent judiciously. This proverb is often used to remind someone that money is not an unlimited resource and to encourage prudent financial behavior.

This proverb is commonly used in various scenarios to emphasize the need for financial responsibility. Here are a few examples:

• Example: A parent might say, “Money doesn’t grow on trees,” when their child asks for an expensive toy or item. It serves as a lesson that they need to understand the effort behind earning money and the importance of saving.
• Example: When discussing household budgets, one might say, “We need to cut down on unnecessary expenses because money doesn’t grow on trees.” This highlights the need to manage finances carefully.
• Example: An employer might remind employees, “We need to be mindful of our project expenses; money doesn’t grow on trees.” This is a way to encourage cost-effective practices and resource management.

While the proverb is widely applicable, there are situations where its use might be inappropriate or even counterproductive. Here are some instances to consider:

• Example: Telling someone who is already financially struggling that “money doesn’t grow on trees” can come across as dismissive or insensitive. Instead, offer practical support or advice without the proverb.
• Example: If someone is considering donating to a charitable cause, using this proverb might discourage their generosity. In such cases, it’s better to support their willingness to help others.
• Example: During salary or contract negotiations, telling the other party that “money doesn’t grow on trees” might be seen as unprofessional and could damage the relationship. Focus on the value and benefits of the negotiation instead.

Let’s look at some practical scenarios where the proverb can be used effectively and where it might be better avoided:

• A parent explaining to their teenager why they can’t afford the latest smartphone: “I know you want the new phone, but money doesn’t grow on trees. Let’s save up for it together.”
• A friend advising another about a spontaneous luxury purchase: “Do you really need that designer bag? Remember, money doesn’t grow on trees.”
• Telling a colleague who is facing medical bills that money doesn’t grow on trees.
• Discouraging someone from pursuing a beneficial educational course because of its cost by saying, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.”

“Money doesn’t grow on trees” is a valuable proverb that serves as a reminder of the importance of financial responsibility and the effort required to earn money. By understanding when and how to use this saying, we can convey its message effectively without coming across as insensitive or discouraging. Remember, the key is to use the proverb to promote thoughtful financial behavior and appreciation for the value of money.

Using this proverb appropriately can foster a culture of financial mindfulness and respect for the hard work that goes into earning a living, ultimately leading to better financial decisions and a more prosperous future.

In this section, we’ll explore key words and expressions from the article to help you expand your vocabulary and enhance your understanding of financial responsibility and common English idioms. Each word or phrase will be explained in context and related to everyday English usage.

• Meaning: A short, well-known saying that expresses a general truth or piece of advice.
• Context: The article uses the proverb “Money doesn’t grow on trees” to emphasize the importance of financial responsibility.
• Everyday Use: “Actions speak louder than words” is another common proverb that means what you do is more important than what you say.
• Meaning: The practice of managing money in a way that is careful and sensible, ensuring that one can meet their financial obligations.
• Context: The article discusses the importance of financial responsibility in managing household budgets and spending wisely.
• Everyday Use: Saving a portion of your salary every month shows financial responsibility.
• Meaning: Having limits or bounds; not infinite.
• Context: Money is described as a finite resource, highlighting that it is not endless and must be managed carefully.
• Everyday Use: Our time on this planet is finite, so we should make the most of it.
• Meaning: With good judgment or sense; wisely.
• Context: The proverb encourages spending money judiciously.
• Everyday Use: Use your vacation days judiciously to ensure you have time off when you need it most.
• Meaning: The state of being scarce or in short supply.
• Context: The proverb highlights the scarcity of money, implying it is not always readily available.
• Everyday Use: The scarcity of water in some regions makes conservation efforts crucial.
• Meaning: To give support, confidence, or hope to someone.
• Context: The proverb is used to encourage prudent financial behavior.
• Everyday Use: Teachers often encourage students to ask questions to enhance their learning.
• Meaning: Showing or feeling no concern for others’ feelings.
• Context: Using the proverb in certain situations can be seen as insensitive to someone’s financial struggles.
• Everyday Use: Making jokes about someone’s appearance can be very insensitive.
• Meaning: Showing that something is unworthy of consideration.
• Context: The article warns against being dismissive of someone’s financial hardships by using the proverb.
• Everyday Use: The manager’s dismissive attitude towards the employees’ concerns led to dissatisfaction.
• Meaning: The quality of being kind and generous.
• Context: The article mentions avoiding the proverb when encouraging acts of generosity.
• Everyday Use: Her generosity in donating to the local shelter was greatly appreciated by the community.
• Meaning: Discussions aimed at reaching an agreement.
• Context: Using the proverb during professional negotiations might be seen as unprofessional.
• Everyday Use: Successful negotiations between the two companies led to a profitable partnership.

Here are some thought-provoking questions based on the article. These questions are designed to encourage deeper reflection on the topic and can be discussed with friends, family, or in the comments section.

• Have you ever found yourself using the proverb “Money doesn’t grow on trees”? In what situations did you use it, and how was it received?
• Do you think it’s important to teach children about financial responsibility from a young age? Why or why not?
• Can you think of a time when using the proverb might have been insensitive or counterproductive? How could you have handled the situation differently?
• What are some other proverbs or sayings that convey a similar message about the value of hard work and financial prudence?
• How do you balance the need for financial responsibility with the desire to be generous and support good causes?
• In your opinion, what are the most effective ways to encourage others to manage their finances wisely without sounding dismissive or insensitive?
• How has your understanding of money and financial responsibility evolved over the years? What experiences have shaped your perspective?
• Do you agree with the statement that money is a finite resource that must be managed carefully? Why or why not?
• How do you handle unexpected expenses or financial setbacks? What strategies do you use to stay financially stable?
• What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to manage their finances?

Reflecting on these questions can help deepen your understanding of financial responsibility and the appropriate use of proverbs like “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section or discuss them with others to gain different perspectives.

Get Vocabulary Voyages E-Book for Free!

Build your vocabulary today in the context of 40 beautiful stories about profound words with interactive elements, QR codes, exercises and more, for FREE ! You will get the FULL E-Book not just a preview!

I will also be sending you the weekly digest to share with you the latest content I add here on the website.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up today and get your weekly dose of English Plus content!

You have Successfully Subscribed!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

English Plus

You may also like.

Prevention is Better Than Cure: Why Proactive Measures Matter

by English Plus | Oct 8, 2024

Discover the timeless wisdom behind the proverb ‘Prevention is better than cure,’ exploring how proactive measures can save time, health, and effort in the long run.

Why It’s Important to Practice What You Preach

by English Plus | Oct 1, 2024

Discover the meaning behind the proverb “practice what you preach” and why aligning your actions with your words is key to building trust and integrity in both personal and professional life.

Penny Wise, Pound Foolish: Understanding the Balance Between Saving and Long-Term Value

by English Plus | Sep 23, 2024

Discover the meaning of the proverb “Penny wise, pound foolish,” with examples of when it’s appropriate to use and when it’s not. Learn how small savings can lead to bigger losses if long-term value is ignored.

Recent Posts

Exploring Sartre’s Nausea: A Journey into Existentialism

Oct 12, 2024 | Literary Echoes

Dive into Jean-Paul Sartre’s Nausea, a foundational existentialist novel that explores the human experience of meaninglessness and existence. Discover the core themes and impact of this literary masterpiece.

The Power of Irony in Storytelling: How to Master this Literary Device

Oct 12, 2024 | Creative Writing Tips

Learn how to effectively use irony in storytelling to engage readers and add depth to your narratives. Explore different types of irony and how they can enhance your creative writing.

Making Fitness Fun: Creative Exercise Ideas to Stay Active

Oct 12, 2024 | Health and Fitness

Discover fun and unique exercise ideas to make fitness exciting again. From dance workouts to outdoor adventures, these creative activities will help you stay active and enjoy the process.

The Story of Us | Hiroshima

Oct 11, 2024 | The Story of Us

Experience the poignant journey of a Hiroshima survivor in this emotional story. Witness the aftermath of the atomic bomb and the struggle to find meaning amid destruction and loss, as hope emerges from the ashes.

The Legacy of Paul Cézanne: Pioneer of Modern Art

Oct 11, 2024 | Immortal People

Discover the lasting impact of Paul Cézanne, a master painter who laid the foundation for modern art. Explore his unique style, influence on other artists, and his journey to becoming an iconic figure in art history.

Exploring the Enigma: What Happens After We Die?

Oct 11, 2024 | Videos

Explore the age-old question of what happens after we die, from scientific views to spiritual beliefs like reincarnation and near-death experiences. Whether death is a final end or a new beginning, this thought-provoking discussion invites reflection on the mysteries of consciousness and the meaning of life. Join the conversation and share your perspective on life’s greatest mystery.

• Crossword Puzzles in Context (176)
• A Very Short History of the World (16)
• Beyond Earth (2)
• Big Ideas Explained (13)
• Business Spotlights (43)
• Career Insights (34)
• Creative Writing Tips (27)
• Cultural Insights (33)
• Did You Know (36)
• Editorial (17)
• Common Mistakes in English (5)
• Cultural English (7)
• English For Specific Purposes (3)
• Focus on Business (8)
• Focus on Grammar (8)
• Focus on Literature (7)
• Focus on Skills (7)
• Focus on Speaking (7)
• Focus on Vocabulary (8)
• Focus on Writing (7)
• Grammar And Vocabulary (6)
• Idiomatic Expressions (8)
• Listening and Speaking (3)
• Reading and Writing (3)
• Common Mistakes in English (14)
• Countries (15)
• Grammar (18)
• History (16)
• Literature (18)
• Science (19)
• Trivia (18)
• Vocabulary (17)
• English Expressions (60)
• English Usage (14)
• Flash Facts (54)
• Great Stories (28)
• Immortal People (30)
• Know Yourself (56)
• Poetry Shorts (40)
• Proverbs (95)
• Quotes (94)
• Spotlights Shorts (45)
• Word Power Shorts (57)
• English Plus Multimedia (4)
• Fact or Fiction (27)
• Frequently Asked Questions (31)
• General Spotlights (11)
• Gods and Heroes (39)
• Grammar Galaxy (2)
• Health and Fitness (39)
• Her Story (2)
• History Spotlights (47)
• Lessons from Everything (4)
• Let's Get Creative (1)
• Lifelines (13)
• Literary Echoes (51)
• Magazine Series (1)
• Mysteries Revealed (32)
• Planet Earth (28)
• Curriculum Development (4)
• Education Policy (4)
• Education Spotlights (39)
• Educational Technology (11)
• Higher Education (2)
• Language Learning Strategies (5)
• Learning and the Brain (12)
• Parent and Community (14)
• Teacher Development (4)
• Teaching Strategies (1)
• Podcasting (2)
• Polyglot (1)
• Science Spotlights (58)
• Short Introductions (184)
• Social Spotlights (59)
• The Journey Within (59)
• Arts and Literature (6)
• Immortal Books (8)
• Immortals (6)
• Ink & Ashes (1)
• Literary Spotlights (1)
• Myths and Legends (10)
• NonFiction (1)
• Phoenix Poetry (3)
• Poet Diary (1)
• Poetry for Everyone (6)
• Project Orpheus (1)
• Short Stories (4)
• Short Stories for Everyone (5)
• Writing Tips and Techniques (9)
• Top Ten (12)
• War and Peace (31)
• 101 Series (1)
• Academy (4)
• Ask Danny (1)
• Bonus Episodes (1)
• Business English (44)
• Common Mistakes (7)
• Discussions (5)
• Down to Business (3)
• Education for All (1)
• English Express (21)
• English in Context (1)
• English Plus in Action (1)
• English Plus Show (1)
• Fantastic Guest (6)
• Grammar (41)
• History (22)
• Know Thyself (2)
• Let's Talk Literature (5)
• Magazine Spotlights (1)
• Masterclass (3)
• Mythology (20)
• Our Story (1)
• Podumentary (2)
• Poetry (33)
• Pronunciation (4)
• Real Conversations (7)
• Science (20)
• Society and Culture (9)
• Stories (34)
• Technology (1)
• The Daily Digest (40)
• The Story of Us (2)
• The Universe (1)
• Vocabulary Building (114)
• Vocabulary in Context (2)
• Vocabulary Voyages (3)
• Word Power (87)
• Writing (4)
• Featured Articles (14)
• Focus on Listening (20)
• Red Dead Redemption (1)
• The Last of Us (2)
• The Odyssey (1)
• Old Audio Series (6)
• Premium Episodes (5)
• Modern Business Essentials (10)
• Super Special Posts (1)

Pin It on Pinterest

Home — Application Essay — Business School — Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees

• University: University of Washington

About this sample

Words: 502 |

Published: Jul 18, 2018

Words: 502 | Pages: 1 | 3 min read

"Money doesn't grow on trees" was my mom's favorite catchphrase - and her inevitable response to my requests for movie tickets, clothes, and chocolate. The first time she used this phrase was in fifth grade when I asked for movie money. My mother gave me exact change, so I salivated while watching my friends savor popcorn and candy. Then in sixth grade, my friends and I became obsessed with sparkly jeans. When I asked my mom for money for bedazzled pants, she was genuinely baffled: “You only have one butt. Why do you need so many pants?”

Say no to plagiarism.

Get a tailor-made essay on

'Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees'

Her message was clear. I couldn’t just ask for those fancy pants; I had to earn them. To earn money, I had to provide goods or services needed in my community. A lemonade stand? Nope, not enough profit. Mowing lawns? The clumsy sixth-grade me wasn’t ready to lose a finger. Having a knack for crafts, I loved making wallets, bags, and hair accessories from duct tape. Soon, I realized I could turn a hobby into a lucrative business. To advertise, I brought a wallet to class, and students clamored to order a duct-tape wallet.

I sold my merchandise for a dollar each and began earning a whopping ten dollars a week, enough to cover expenses and expand inventory. After saving some money, I indulged in popcorn and new pants. Life was great … until the inevitable — competition. With the addition of Emily's floral-print accessories and Michelle's superhero duct-tape wallets, duct-tape objects became so ubiquitous that they were no longer coveted. By eleven years old, I had experienced the thrill of starting a successful business, the challenges of adapting with a changing market, and the disappointment of bankruptcy.

My duct-tape wallet business thankfully prepared me for the challenges of my current business venture. In high school, when expenses piled up, I knew that my next business project needed to involve selling services instead of products. Because I have the credentials, and music lessons remain in high demand, I decided to teach piano. Unlike selling goods, selling services requires more communication and business skills. I had my fair share of customers who took advantage of me by consistently arriving late, bargaining for lower fees, and delaying payments. Initially lenient, I soon realized that I must be firm with customers regarding policies. Since adapting to these challenges, I’ve been successfully teaching piano to eleven students over the past two years.

Keep in mind: This is only a sample.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

Although I used to loathe my mom’s rationale for denying me spending money, I’m now grateful she encouraged me to solve my own problems. From nights staying up making duct-tape items and days teaching piano, I learned that earning money isn’t easy, and saving money has become natural to me. Every now and then, I treat my mom to dinner because if it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t have become the entrepreneur I am today. And of course, I treat myself to a pair of pants once in awhile, because you can never have too many pairs for one butt.

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

• Expert in: Business School

+ 122 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 618 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Are you interested in getting a customized paper?

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Business School

Despite living in the populous Orange County, I was raised with the small-town values of two parents from Weirton, West Virginia and Wellsburg, West Virginia: “God has given you the potential to achieve great things, so work [...]

When people say that they are inspired by a piece of artwork, they are often referring to the finished piece rather than the process that created what they are viewing. This is definitely not the case when I say that I am [...]

It is 9:30 on a sunny June morning, I’m standing alone in the ferry ticket line pretending to look for friends that aren’t coming with me, hopelessly trying not to look so uncomfortable. I move forward in line and see a group of [...]

"Dive line!" my fastidious volleyball coach yells. The sound of these two words still frightens me at night. Dive line is an appalling exercise- we scurry a few feet to get up to speed, dive onto the freshly waxed floor, [...]

If I could be the leader of any organization, I would want to be the President of the United States of America. Given the sheer complexity and vast array of policies necessary to govern the US, for brevity’s sake I will touch [...]

Anne Frank once said, “How wonderful is it that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” Many people do not realize the impact the smallest good deeds can have on the human race. Some may even give [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

• English Conversation Lessons
• English Essay Topics
• English Autobiography Examples
• Report Writing
• Letter Writing
• Expansion of Ideas(English Proverbs)
• English Grammar
• English Debate Topics
• English Stories
• English Speech Topics
• English Poems
• Riddles with Answers
• English Idioms
• Simple English Conversations
• Greetings & Wishes
• Thank you Messages
• Premium Plans
• Student’s Log In
• 1 item ₹150.00

. » Expansion of Ideas » Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees

Expansion of an Idea – “Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” for Students / Teachers / Parents

Explore the idea that “Money doesn’t grow on trees” and the importance of money in our lives. This phrase is a common idiom that conveys the idea that money is not something that comes easily or without effort. It emphasizes the importance of hard work, budgeting, and financial planning to achieve financial stability and security.

We also examine the broader societal implications of money, including its role in economic growth and development, income inequality, and poverty reduction. Join us on this journey to explore the importance of money and how it can help us achieve our goals, both individually and as a community.

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees

The proverb “money doesn’t grow on trees” is a common saying that emphasizes the idea that money is a limited resource that must be earned and managed responsibly. It serves as a reminder that money is not something that can be obtained easily or effortlessly. Instead, it is something that must be earned through hard work, dedication, and responsible management.

The proverb suggests that money is not something that can be plucked from the branches of a tree or found lying around in the ground. It is not something that can be easily acquired or obtained without effort. Instead, money is something that must be earned through the sweat of one’s brow and the diligent application of one’s skills and abilities.

Furthermore, the proverb highlights the importance of managing money wisely once it is earned. Money, like any other resource, is finite and must be used wisely to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Wasteful spending or careless management of money can lead to financial problems and difficulties, making it crucial to be responsible and thoughtful in the way that money is handled.

In summary, the proverb “money doesn’t grow on trees” emphasizes that money is a finite resource that must be earned and utilized responsibly. It imparts a valuable message about the significance of diligence, commitment, and prudent financial planning, while also stressing the need to allocate resources in a manner that guarantees their durability and efficiency over the long term.

English Courses

• Mom & Son Breakfast Talk
• Dad & Son Breakfast Talk
• Going Out for Breakfast
• Healthy Breakfast Ideas
• Breakfast Table Conversation
• Talking about Household Chores
• Power Outage Conversation
• Speaking About Vegetables
• Talk About Television
• Telephone Conversation in English
• Renting an Apartment Vocabulary
• Talking about Pets
• Self Introduction Conversation
• Introduce Yourself in English
• Morning Walk Conversation
• Make New Friends Conversation
• English Speaking with Friends
• Conversation Between Siblings
• Talking about Smartphones
• Talking About City Life
• English Conversation on the Bus
• Talking about Dust Allergy
• Talking about Food Allergies
• Brushing Teeth Conversation
• Replacing Worn out Toothbrush
• Brushing Teeth with Braces
• Switching to Herbal Toothpaste
• Benefits of using Tongue Cleaner
• Talking about Illness
• Talking about Fitness and Health
• Talking About Fitness for Kids
• Visiting a Doctor Conversation
• Speaking about Lifestyle
• Conversation about Air Pollution
• Using an ATM Conversation
• Opening a Bank Account
• Car Accident Conversation
• Talking about Accident
• Exam Conversation with Kids
• At the Library Conversation
• Talking about Studies
• Offline vs Online School
• Internet Vocabulary and Dialogues
• Advantages of Homeschooling
• Inviting for Birthday Party
• Phone Conversation
• Asking for Directions
• Conversation on the Plane
• At the Airport Conversation
• Lost and Found Conversation
• Museum Vocabulary
• Conversation about Traffic
• Order Food Over the Phone
• At the Restaurant Conversation
• Talking about Music
• English Music Vocabulary
• Talk on Music Band
• Shopping for Clothes
• Buying a Smartphone
• Ordering Flowers Conversation
• English Conversation in Vegetable Market
• At the Supermarket
• At the Pharmacy
• Friends Talking about Chess
• Importance of Outdoor Activities
• Talking About Football
• Weekend Plans Conversation
• At the Beach Conversation
• New Job Conversation
• Business English Conversation
• Expressing Boredom in English
• English Conversation at the Salon
• English Speaking at the Bakery
• Talking About Studies
• Siblings Studying Together
• Speaking about Outdoor Activities
• Talk About Photography
• Essay on My School
• Essay on Summer Vacation
• Essay on Time Management
• Essay on Hard Work
• Essay on Health is Wealth
• Essay on Time is Money
• Republic Day Essay
• Essay on My Hobby
• Essay on Myself
• Essay on My Teacher
• Essay on My Best Friend
• Essay on My Family
• Essay on My Mother
• Essay on My Father
• Essay on Friendship
• Essay on Global Warming
• Essay on Child Labor
• Essay on Mahatma Gandhi
• Essay on Holi
• Essay on Pollution
• Essay on Education
• Essay on Air Pollution
• Essay on Communication
• Essay on Doctor
• Essay on Environment
• Essay on Gender Inequality
• Essay on Happiness
• Essay on Healthy Food
• Essay on My Favorite Festival Diwali
• Essay on My Favorite Sport
• Essay on My Parents
• Essay on Overpopulation
• Essay on Poverty
• Essay on Travelling
• Essay on Unemployment
• Essay on Unity in Diversity
• Essay on Water Pollution
• Essay on Water
• Essay on Women Empowerment
• Essay on Yoga
• Essay on Christmas
• Autobiography of a Book
• Autobiography of a Brook
• Autobiography of a Camera
• Autobiography of a Cat
• Autobiography of a Classroom
• Autobiography of a Coin
• Autobiography of a Dog
• Autobiography of a Doll
• Autobiography of a Farmer
• Autobiography of a Flower
• Autobiography of a Football
• Autobiography of a Haunted House
• Autobiography of a House
• Autobiography of a Kite
• Autobiography of a Library
• Autobiography of a Mobile Phone
• Autobiography of a Mosquito
• Autobiography of a Newspaper
• Autobiography of a Pen
• Autobiography of a Pencil
• Autobiography of a River
• Autobiography of a Table
• Autobiography of a Tiger
• Autobiography of a Tree
• Autobiography of an Umbrella
• Autobiography of Bicycle
• Autobiography of Bird
• Autobiography of Chair
• Autobiography of Clock
• Autobiography of Computer
• Autobiography of Earth
• Autobiography of Lion
• Autobiography of Peacock
• Autobiography of Rain
• Autobiography of a Soldier
• Autobiography of Sun
• Autobiography of Water Bottle
• Autobiography of Water Droplet
• Adopting a Village
• Teaching Children in an Adopted Village
• Programs Organized in an Adopted Village
• Volunteering in an Adopted Village
• Activities in an Adopted Village
• School Annual Day Celebration
• Republic Day Celebration
• Teachers Day Celebration
• World Environment Day Celebration
• Children’s Day Celebration
• Visiting the Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre
• The Animal Sanctuary Visit
• Animal Shelter Visit
• Animal Rescue Center Visit
• Adult Literacy Camp
• Burglary of Jewelry
• India Wins Test Match
• School Children Affected by Food Poisoning
• Heavy Rains in Mumbai
• School Children Injured in Bus Accident
• Complaint Letter to the Chairman of Housing Society
• Request Letter to the Municipal Corporation
• Complaint Letter to the State Electricity Board
• Suggestion Letter to the Chief Minister
• Request Letter to the District Collector
• Request Letter to the Commissioner of Police
• Application Letter for an Internship
• Application Letter for a Job
• Request Letter for a Character Certificate
• Request Letter for a Better Lab and Library
• Global Warming Debate
• Animal Rights Debate
• Climate Change Debate
• Gun Control Debate
• Role of Religion in Society Debate
• Republic Day Speech
• Poems about Life
• Poems about Nature
• Poems for Boys
• Poems for Girls
• Poems for Mothers
• Poems for Friends
• Poems for Kids
• Poems about Trees
• Poems about Peace
• Funny Poems
• Poems About Climate Change
• Poems about Dreams
• Poems about Education
• Poems about Environment
• Poems about Eyes
• Poems about Family
• Poems about Fear
• Poems about Feminism
• Poems about Flowers
• Poems about Freedom
• Poems about Friendship
• Poems about Happiness
• Poems about History
• Poems about Hope
• Poems about India
• Poems about Joy
• Poems about Loneliness
• Poems about Love
• Poems about Night
• Poems about Power
• Poems about Water
• Poems about Women Empowerment
• Poems about Women’s Rights
• Poems on Earth
• Poems on Home
• Poems on Honesty
• Poems on Humanity
• Poems on Jungle
• Poems on Kindness
• Poems on Mental Health
• Poems on Moon
• Poems on Music
• Poems on Patriotism
• A Bad Workman Always Blames His Tools
• A Bird in the Hand is Worth Two in the Bush
• A Fool and His Money Are Soon Parted
• A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned
• A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
• A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
• A Watched Pot Never Boils
• Absence Make the Heart Grow Fonder
• Actions Speak Louder than Words
• All Good Things Come to Those Who Wait
• All Good Things Must Come To an End
• All Is Fair in Love and War
• All That Glitters is Not Gold
• All’s Well That Ends Well
• An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
• An Empty Vessel Makes Much Noise
• An Idle Mind is Devil’s Workshop
• As You Sow, So Shall You Reap
• Barking Dogs Seldom Bite
• Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder
• Beggars can’t be Choosers
• Better Late than Never
• Better the Devil You Know than the Devil You Don’t
• Birds of a Feather Flock Together
• Blood is Thicker than Water
• Boys will be Boys
• Charity Begins at Home
• Cleanliness is Next to Godliness
• Curiosity Killed the Cat
• Don’t Bite Off More than You Chew
• Don’t Bite the Hand that Feeds You
• Don’t Blow Your Own Trumpet
• Don’t Count your Chickens Before They Hatch
• Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk
• Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover
• Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket
• Don’t Put the Cart Before the Horse
• Don’t Throw The Baby Out With the Bathwater
• Early to Bed and Early to Rise Makes a Man Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise
• Easy Come, Easy Go
• Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining
• Every Dog Has His Day
• Fools Rush in Where Angels Fear to Tread
• Fortune Favors the Bold
• Give a Man a Fish, and You Feed Him for a Day; Teach a Man to Fish, and You Feed Him for a Lifetime
• Give Credit Where Credit is Due
• God Helps Those Who Help Themselves
• Half a Loaf is Better Than None
• Haste Makes Waste
• Health is Wealth
• Honesty is the Best Policy
• If at First You Don’t Succeed, Try, Try Again
• If It ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It
• If the Shoe Fits, Wear It
• If you can’t Beat them, Join them
• If you Want Something Done Right, Do It Yourself
• Ignorance is Bliss
• It ain’t Over Till the Fat Lady Sings
• It Takes Two to Tango
• It’s a Small World
• It’s Always Darkest Before the Dawn
• It’s Better to Ask Forgiveness than Permission
• Its Better to Be Safe than Sorry
• It’s Better to Give than to Receive
• It’s Never Too Late to Mend
• It’s not What you Know, it’s Who you Know
• Jack of All Trades, Master of None
• Keep Your Friends Close and Your Enemies Closer
• Keep Your Mouth Shut and Your Eyes Open
• Kill Two Birds with One Stone
• Knowledge is Power
• Laughter is the Best Medicine
• Leave No Stone Unturned
• Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
• Life is a Journey, Not a Destination
• Life is Like a Box of Chocolates; You Never Know What You’re Gonna Get
• Like Father, Like Son
• Look Before You Leap
• Love Conquers All
• Make Hay While The Sun Shines
• Money Can’t Buy Happiness
• Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees
• Money Talks
• Necessity is the Mother of Invention
• No Man is an Island
• No Pain, No Gain
• Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained
• One Man’s Trash is Another Man’s Treasure
• Out of Sight, Out of Mind
• Patience is a Virtue
• Practice Makes Perfect
• Prevention is Better than Cure
• Rome Wasn’t Built in A Day
• Slow and Steady Wins the Race
• The Early Bird Catches the Worm
• The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side
• The Pen is Mightier Than the Sword
• The Proof of the Pudding is in the Eating
• There is No Place Like Home
• There’s No Time Like the Present
• Time Heals All Wounds
• Time is Money
• Too Many Cooks Spoil the Broth
• Two Heads are Better than One
• When in Rome, do as the Romans do
• Where There’s Smoke, There’s Fire
• You Can Lead a Horse to Water, But You Can’t Make it Drink
• You Can’t Have Your Cake and Eat It Too
• You Can’t Make an Omelet Without Breaking Eggs
• You Scratch My Back, And I’ll Scratch Yours
• You’re Never Too Old to Learn
• You’re Only As Strong As Your Weakest Link
• Parts of Speech
• Lola’s Dream
• Snowy Learns to Brave the Rain
• The Ant Explorer
• The Blind Archer
• The Brave Ant
• The Disguised King
• The Enchanted Blade
• The Enchanted Garden of Melodies
• The Endless Bag
• The Faithful Companion
• The Farmer’s Treasure
• The Frog and the Mischievous Fishes
• The Fruit Seller’s Fortune
• The Generous Monkey of the Forest
• The Gentle Giant
• A Blessing in Disguise
• A Dime a Dozen
• A Piece of Cake
• Apple of My Eye
• As Easy as Pie
• Back to the Drawing Board
• Beat Around the Bush
• Bite the Bullet
• Break a Leg
• Butterflies in My Stomach
• By the Skin of Your Teeth
• Caught Red-Handed
• Come Rain or Shine
• Cool as a Cucumber
• Cry over Spilled Milk
• Cut the Mustard
• Devil’s Advocate
• Down to the Wire
• Drink Like a Fish
• Eating Habits
• Supermarket
• Vegetable Market
• College Canteen
• Household Topics
• Diwali Festival
• Republic Day Wishes
• Birthday wishes for kids
• Birthday Wishes for Sister
• Birthday Wishes for Brother
• Birthday Wishes for Friend
• Birthday Wishes for Daughter
• Birthday Wishes for Son
• Women’s Day Wishes
• Thanks for Birthday Wishes
• Thank You Messages for Friends
• Thanks for Anniversary Wishes

Justin Morgan

Latest articles.

• Practical English Usage
• Overview of Babson University
• Babson University’s Entrepreneurship Program
• The Founding of Babson University
• Babson University’s Impact on the Global Economy
• Babson University’s Post-Pandemic Student Preparation
• Babson University’s Notable Alumni
• Babson University’s Business Research
• Campus Life at Babson University
• Babson University’s Leading Scholars and Experts
• Babson University’s Social Impact Program
• The Future of Babson University
• Top Programs at Cardiff University
• COVID-19 Research at Cardiff University
• Culture and Values of Cardiff University

‘Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees’: Definition, Meaning and Examples

Did someone say to you, ‘Money doesn’t grow on trees, ’ and you’re wondering what it means? In this article, we’ll take a look at the meaning, origin, examples, and more.

• 'Money doesn't grow on trees' is an idiom that means that money is a limited resource and you, therefore, shouldn't spend it thoughtlessly.

Long a warning that parents have given to children, this phrase has been around since at least the late 19th century.

What Does ‘Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees’ Mean?

‘Money doesn’t grow on trees’ means that you shouldn’t waste money because it can’t simply be replenished whenever you need it.

• This can be said in order to warn someone else to be cautious about how much money they spend because it is a finite resource.

This is a great idiom because its meaning is very clear if you simply imagine what is being described. If money grew on trees, you wouldn’t have to worry about how much you spent– you could just pick some more.

• The phrase implies, though, that money isn’t something that you can just get more of whenever you want it. It’s something you have to earn and use wisely.

It might not surprise you that this is a phrase that parents have used to teach their children about the value of money for at least more than one hundred years. In some instances, they might simply use the idiom when their kids are asking for something that they can't afford. In others, though, it might be used as a useful image that helps children understand that money must be earned and doesn't just spring from the ground.

Where Does This Idiom Come From?

It’s not entirely clear when this idiom was first used, but it may have originated in the late 19th century. There is an example from 1981 in the Statesville Landmark newspaper that uses the phrase “money doesn’t grow on trees here yet,” but the usage implies that it was already a common idiom.

Using the Google Books Ngram Viewer , we can see some examples of this idiom used historically in print.

One example comes from the 1926 publication A Year in the Wonderland of Trees by Hallam Hawksworth:

“Another thing: you’ve often heard the expression “ Money doesn’t grow on trees ” – meaning that it isn’t easy to get; you’ve got to work for it. But in a way– and a very important way– money does grow on trees. Without trees the time would soon come when we’d have no money to buy things, and there’d be nothing to buy if we had!”

Another example shows up in a 1953 Monthly Newsletter from the Bureau of Supplies and Accounts, Navy Department:

“That money doesn’t grow on trees is a truism no one will deny– that is, as long as by “money” you mean “currency.” That distinction is important because there is a man– an officer in the Navy Supply Corps– who is willing to insist that money does grow on trees– coconut trees.”

Examples of ‘Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees’ In Sentences

How would this idiom be used in a sentence?

Let’s take a look at some examples:

• “Wow, you’ve really been buying a lot of clothes this month. You realize that money doesn’t grow on trees , don’t you?”
• “ There’s a thin line between investing in yourself and spending money you don’t have . Remember, Sally, money doesn’t grow on trees . How are you planning on paying for all of this?”
• “John bought a brand new car even though he just lost his job. What was he thinking? Does he think money grows on trees or something?”
• “I’m so sick of watching you two waste time . Why don’t you go get a job or something? Money doesn’t grow on trees, after all!”

Final Thoughts About ‘Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees’

‘Money doesn’t grow on trees’ is an idiom that implies that one should be careful spending too much money because there is a limited amount of it. Though the origin of this phrase isn’t specifically known, parents have long used it as a warning to their children not to be wasteful with money.

Are you ready to learn more English phrases and expand your vocabulary? Be sure to check out our idioms blog for idioms, expressions, sayings, and more!

Learn More:

• ‘Check In On You’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘Don't Take Any Wooden Nickels’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘This Too Shall Pass’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘Clocking In’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘Burn Bridges’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘Feel Blue’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘Keep You Posted’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘Til We Meet Again’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• ‘Experience is the Best Teacher’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples
• What Day is 'Mid-to-Late February'? Meaning, Definition, and Examples
• ‘Cost an Arm and a Leg’: Definition, Meaning and Examples
• ‘Now We Are Cooking With Gas/Gasoline’: Definition, Meaning and Examples
• ‘Beating a Dead Horse’: Definition, Meaning and Examples
• ‘Run Like The Wind’: Definition, Meaning and Examples
• ‘Seeing Eye To Eye’: Definition, Meaning and Examples

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook . Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

Add new comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

With English, the World is Your Oyster!

• Listening Skills
• TED Talk Lessons
• What are Idioms?
• Visual Idiom Examples
• Idioms Lists
• About Nicole
• Privacy Policy

Money Doesn't Grow on Trees Idiom Meaning & Examples

Can you guess the meaning of the idiom 'money doesn't grow on trees' by looking at the picture? 

Money doesn't grow on trees:   it requires effort to earn money and it is limited so you must be careful how you spend it.

Notes :  

Unfortunately, you can't pick money off trees like fruit. You have to work to earn it or be fortunate to receive it as a gift. Either way, you have to spend it carefully because it is limited in quantity.

Parents often use this expression with young children who do not understand the concept of money or its value.

Sentence examples

—  Too bad  money doesn't grow on trees — or I would hire a personal trainer and have healthy meals delivered to my home so I could lose weight .   

—  My parents made us buy everything with our allowance so we learned quickly that  money doesn't grow on trees .      

—  When I told my five-year-old that I couldn't buy her a toy because " money doesn't grow on trees ," she told me to just put it on my credit card instead!

—  I really do wish I could buy you those $1,250 Jimmy Choo boots for you my dear but unfortunately, money doesn't grow on trees .

—  I'm grateful that my parents helped me learn that money doesn't grow on trees  when I was a child because it helped me be financially responsible as an adult.

—  " Money doesn't grow on trees " is one of the classic limiting beliefs that parents transfer to their kids that can prevent them from earning and saving money.

Download your free illustrated idioms eBook!

Want to expand your idiom knowledge even further? Download our free eBook, '25 Illustrated Idioms,' to learn more useful expressions with fun visuals that make understanding idioms a breeze. Sign up now to get your free copy !

head in the sand

scare the pants off

I'd like to invite you to  sign-up for my free newsletter to learn about new updates and lessons as I add them to my website.

• Idiom Examples
• Money Doesn't Grow on Trees

Listening | TED Talks |  Speaking |  Grammar |  Vocabulary | Idioms |  Blog

Copyright © 2013-2024  OysterEnglish.com   All rights reserved  |    Privacy policy

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

Money does not grow on trees

Origin of: money does not grow on trees.

An idiom that means money is hard to come by, as opposed to so many things that simply grow on trees in abundance, year after year. It is originally American from the late 19th century, but now commonly used all around the English-speaking world.

Peranan Penting Pertumbuhan Digital Di Masa Sekarang

• Uncategorized

Pendidikan 4.0: Transformasi Sistem Pendidikan di Indonesia

• [email protected]
• October 9, 2024

Pendidikan 4.0: Transformasi Sistem Pendidikan di Indonesia Pendidikan 4.0 telah menjadi topik hangat yang sedang dibicarakan di Indonesia akhir-akhir ini. Konsep pendidikan 4.0 sendiri merupakan […]

Mengembangkan Bisnis E-Commerce di Indonesia: Peluang dan Kendala yang Perlu Diwaspadai

Bisnis e-commerce semakin populer di Indonesia. Banyak orang mulai beralih ke belanja online karena kemudahannya. Namun, untuk mengembangkan bisnis e-commerce di Indonesia, tentu ada peluang […]

Peluang dan Tantangan Bisnis Online di Indonesia: Sebuah Tinjauan

Peluang dan tantangan bisnis online di Indonesia memang tak bisa dipungkiri lagi. Seiring dengan perkembangan teknologi yang semakin pesat, bisnis online kini semakin diminati oleh […]

Inovasi Terkini dalam Bisnis Online yang Perlu Anda Ketahui

• October 8, 2024

Inovasi terkini dalam bisnis online memang tak pernah berhenti berkembang. Dengan perkembangan teknologi yang semakin pesat, para pelaku bisnis online dituntut untuk terus menerapkan inovasi […]

Keberlangsungan Pekerjaan di Era Digital: Menyiasati Perubahan dan Dinamika Pasar

Keberlangsungan pekerjaan di era digital menjadi topik yang semakin relevan dan penting untuk dibahas saat ini. Dengan perkembangan teknologi yang begitu pesat, pasar kerja pun […]

Mengapa Kemudahan Informasi di Era Digital Harus Diapresiasi?

Kemudahan informasi di era digital merupakan hal yang patut untuk diapresiasi. Mengapa demikian? Karena dengan adanya kemudahan informasi ini, kita dapat mengakses berbagai informasi secara […]

Menghadapi Persaingan Bisnis di Era Digital: Ide Bisnis yang Menjanjikan di Indonesia

• October 7, 2024

Pada era digital seperti sekarang ini, persaingan bisnis semakin ketat dan dinamis. Untuk itu, kita perlu menghadapi persaingan bisnis di era digital dengan ide bisnis […]

Ancaman Ransomware dan Malware: Bagaimana Mencegah dan Mengatasi Serangan Cyber

Ancaman Ransomware dan Malware: Bagaimana Mencegah dan Mengatasi Serangan Cyber Siapa yang tidak takut dengan ancaman ransomware dan malware? Serangan cyber semakin menjadi momok bagi […]

Tren Bisnis Digital yang Sedang Berkembang di Indonesia

Tren Bisnis Digital yang Sedang Berkembang di Indonesia Bisnis digital semakin menjadi sorotan utama di Indonesia, terutama sejak pandemi COVID-19 melanda. Tren bisnis digital yang […]

Menghadapi Persaingan Bisnis Internasional di Era Digital: Tips dan Trik Sukses

• October 6, 2024

Persaingan bisnis internasional di era digital semakin ketat dan kompleks. Untuk bertahan dan sukses dalam lingkungan bisnis yang berubah dengan cepat ini, diperlukan strategi yang […]

Money doesn’t grow on trees, but should it?

Paying countries to keep their forests intact is one way the world could slow deforestation.

Trees are a great ally in the fight against climate change; they suck the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide out of the air and store it safely. They also do a lot of other environmentally positive things: they root soil in place, stopping it running into rivers, and they provide a living space and food source for many animals, including humans. Plus, they look nice! Spending time in nature is good for our wellbeing (and many countries' tourism industries). All of which is why over 100 countries have just pledged to end deforestation completely by 2030 .

Promises are one thing. Action is another. Not everyone is convinced that global tree-cutting is going to stop any time soon. After all, the last time lots of governments made an anti-deforestation pledge, in 2014, deforestation didn’t slow at all . The problem is that there are still significant incentives to cut down trees. Wood is a widely-used material, and once a tree is out of the way, the land where it stood can be used for other useful purposes, including housing and farming.

Ultimately, deforestation has been a huge money-maker for many businesses, including big global ones. That in turn has made it a money-maker for many governments, who sell land to these companies and tax the profits of their business. Deforestation has also benefited many individuals, including many poorer ones. Sawn-off tree trunks might signal environmental destruction, but they also signal jobs and fuel and furniture and housing and government spending and economic development and many other things that help humans survive and thrive.

Many environmentalists would say the costs outweigh these benefits. After all, through things like more intense weather events, climate change has the potential to cause significant damage to both business prospects and everyday life. Plus, it is slated to hit the poorest people living in the poorest countries the most. But some argue that the world simply cannot tell some people or some parts of the world that they can't benefit from deforestation in the same way other people or parts of the world did in the past. For one thing, it's not fair. For another, they're unlikely to listen.

A potential solution to this ethical problem has been trialled in the country of Gabon. It is not a rich country: about a third of its population earn under the minimum wage and over three-fifths of its children drop out of school. Gabon is, however, rich in rainforest. About 85 percent of its land is currently covered in trees. Gabon’s government has therefore suggested a deal: the world should pay it to not chop those trees down. The United Nations agreed to this plan in 2019: it will pay Gabon $150 million over ten years if it keeps its forest mostly intact . Whether this scheme will be successful enough to be deployed elsewhere and help the world meet that 2030 deforestation target remains to be seen.

Read our explainer on: international development . 

Recent articles

Junior doctors are striking. should we increase their wages by a third, at cop28, the world agrees that maybe fossil fuels are a bit of a problem, a new uk policy will kick people off benefits if they don’t try to work, reader comments, privacy overview.

English Guide

Help center

Money doesn`t grow on trees: Learn what the means through example!

What does “money doesn`t grow on trees” mean.

"Money doesn't grow on trees" means that money doesn't come easily or abundantly.

What context can I use the in?

I wish I could buy that new car, but money doesn't grow on trees .

You have to work hard if you want to be successful, money doesn't grow on trees .

My parents always told me to be careful with my spending because money doesn't grow on trees

Is “Money doesn`t grow on trees” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Money doesn`t grow on trees” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Money doesn`t grow on trees” effectively in context?

You can use "Money doesn't grow on trees" to remind someone that money is not easily obtained and should be spent wisely. It emphasizes the need for hard work and financial responsibility. For example, if a friend wants to buy an expensive item but doesn't have enough money, you might say, 'I know you want it, but remember, money doesn't grow on trees.'

When giving financial advice to a friend, you can say, 'It's important to save money because money doesn't grow on trees.'

If your child asks for something expensive, you can say, 'We need to be careful with our spending because money doesn't grow on trees.'

When discussing the importance of hard work, you can say, 'If you want to succeed, remember that money doesn't grow on trees. You have to work for it.'

Similar phrases to “Money doesn`t grow on trees”:

Save for a rainy day

To save money for future needs or emergencies

It's important to save for a rainy day because unexpected expenses can arise.

Cut your coat according to your cloth

To live within one's means and not spend more than one can afford

She learned to cut her coat according to her cloth and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Penny wise, pound foolish

To be careful with small expenses but wasteful with larger ones

He was penny wise, pound foolish, always saving on small things but overspending on big purchases.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “money doesn`t grow on trees” come from.

The origin of the phrase "Money doesn't grow on trees" is unknown.

Is “Money doesn`t grow on trees” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Money doesn't grow on trees" is a common proverb used in everyday conversation. It is often used to remind people about the value of money and the need to work hard to earn it.

What tone does “Money doesn`t grow on trees” have?

"Money doesn't grow on trees" conveys a tone of practicality and responsibility. It is used to emphasize the importance of financial discipline and hard work.

Can “Money doesn`t grow on trees” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Money doesn't grow on trees" is informal and can be used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal settings, such as discussions about personal finance or in professional contexts.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I wish I could buy that new car, but money doesn't grow on trees.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "money doesn't grow on trees"!' to imply the need for financial responsibility.

Synonyms & Antonyms

• there's no such thing as a free lunch
• money is hard to come by
• you can't make money out of thin air
• money is earned, not given
• you have to work for your money
• money grows on trees
• money falls from the sky
• money comes easily
• money is abundant

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!

Money doesn't grow on trees

This page is about the saying "Money doesn't grow on trees"

Possible meaning: It's not easy to get money. We have to work hard to make money. We can't just walk around and pick it like fruit from the trees.

A parent might tell a child "money doesn't grow on trees" when the child

See Saying of the Day today

Contributor: Josef Essberger

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2366 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11015 literature essays, 2790 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

University of Washington

Money doesn't grow on trees anonymous, tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it..

"Money doesn't grow on trees" was my mom's favorite catchphrase - and her inevitable response to my requests for movie tickets, clothes, and chocolate. The first time she used this phrase was in fifth grade when I asked for movie money. My mother gave me exact change, so I salivated while watching my friends savor popcorn and candy. Then in sixth grade, my friends and I became obsessed with sparkly jeans. When I asked my mom for money for bedazzled pants, she was genuinely baffled: “You only have one butt. Why do you need so many pants?”

Her message was clear. I couldn’t just ask for those fancy pants; I had to earn them. To earn money, I had to provide goods or services needed in my community. A lemonade stand? Nope, not enough profit. Mowing lawns? The clumsy sixth-grade me wasn’t ready to lose a finger. Having a knack for crafts, I loved making wallets, bags, and hair accessories from duct tape. Soon, I realized I could turn a hobby into a lucrative business. To advertise, I brought a wallet to class, and students clamored to order a duct-tape wallet.

I sold my merchandise for a dollar each and began earning a whopping ten dollars a week, enough to cover expenses and expand inventory. After saving some money, I indulged in...

GradeSaver provides access to 2312 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 10989 literature essays, 2751 sample college application essays, 911 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Already a member? Log in

• Spring Budget 2024
• Cover Features
• The Weekend Essay
• Financial Adviser 2B
• Pensions & Protection Podcast
• Investments

Weekend Essay – Why doesn’t money grow on trees?

There’s nothing quite like a trip to the seaside with the kids to remind yourself how little money you have – and how little children understand the value of it.

Last weekend I took my two girls, aged four and nine, to Hayling Island on the south coast to meet my friend, his wife, their new baby and cockapoo for the first time.

We popped into a lovely little pub overlooking the harbour for a drink and had been there approximately eight seconds when it started.

“Dad, we’re hungry.”

Being Mother’s Day weekend and not thinking about booking a table, we only had 45 minutes until the next party arrived and we had to vacate.

Ah, chips, I thought. Quick and easy. You can’t go wrong with chips.

Turns out you can. Three portions of them – one with cheese on top for good measure – cost me £17.

Seventeen quid? For three portions of chips?! Add to that £13 for drinks and I’d spent £30 without blinking.

Afterwards, we took a drive to the seafront – and of course, it started again.

“Dad, can we have an ice cream?’ “Dad, can we have money for the arcades?” “Dad, can we have a snack?”

HOW CAN YOU STILL BE HUNGRY? Don’t you know I’ve just spent half my salary on chips?! (Just for the record, I should probably clarify I’m joking here. Money Marketing of course pay me more than £34 a month.)

You could argue that I should have given them a more substantial meal than chips for lunch – and of course you’d be right.

You could also argue that I’m a miserable old fart – and again you’d probably be right.

I love days out with the kids and making memories. Seeing them smiling and their little faces lighting up.

But, like so many people, I don’t have an endless supply of money at the moment and, as a result, I sometimes feel myself going all Victor Meldrew about spending it.

So, after a couple of ice creams and splashing out £300 in the arcades to get enough tickets for a 10p bag of Haribo (again, slight exaggeration but you get the idea), I found myself muttering those words under my breath.

You know, the ones almost every one of us have heard from our parents at some point, and the ones we always swore we’d never say ourselves: “Money doesn’t grow on trees, you know.”

I thought I’d said it quietly enough, but clearly not, as my four-year-old – with her eyes full of innocence and intrigue – simply responded: “Why not, Daddy?”

Bowled over by the cuteness of her question and the guilt of being such a grumpy old bugger, I had to give myself a reality check. Of course she doesn’t know the value of money at that age, you buffoon.

But it did make me think back to the debate about what point we should educate kids about money.

Last November, MPs launched a new inquiry into how financial education can be strengthened throughout primary, secondary and further education.

As part of the inquiry, the cross-party education committee will consider whether it should be introduced as part of the primary school curriculum.

While it has been part of the national curriculum for local authority-run secondary schools since 2014, academies and free schools can opt out of teaching it.

The committee said it will “explore reasons why the subject is often overlooked and how well schools and teachers are supported to deliver it”.

Some of the questions that will be asked during the inquiry include: What should we be teaching young people about money? What should financial education include? And are there any aspects missing from the current provision?

MPs will also consider whether financial education should form part of a core subject, what steps should be taken to support teachers and schools to deliver it, and whether financial education in schools should be extended beyond key stages three and four.

Education committee chair Robin Walker MP said: “With families and young people continuing to feel cost-of-living pressures, the case for equipping children of all backgrounds with the life skills and knowledge to help manage their money feels as strong and timely as ever.”

Meanwhile, The Centre for Social Justice has called for an “urgent rethink” of the way financial education is approached.

The think thank carried out research last year that found two-thirds of young adults who experienced financial difficulties believe better financial education could have helped them.

Katja Oakley-Bell, personal finance expert at Quilter, said: “It’s well known that learning gets harder as we get older and with this in mind, we need to teach important life skills to children at an early age, and that includes money skills.

She went on to say: “Teaching financial education in primary school might seem a little extreme, but research has shown that children as young as age seven to eleven can learn good money behaviours and gain skills such as budgeting and deferred gratification.”

So, there you have it. Next time my little lady asks me why money doesn’t grow on trees, I can simply say: “Just wait until the cross-party education committee delivers the results of its inquiry, sweetheart, then perhaps in two years’ time your teachers will be able to tell you all about it.”

There are 3 comments at the moment, we would love to hear your opinion too.

Oh dear. Look, the main problem is that ‘education’ (actually de facto indoctrination) is nationalised. It teaches only the utterly flawed punk Keynesian clap trap that passes for ‘economics’ these days. And why on earth is this a job for government at all? If had the power to make your children’s school teach what money is (say) and how it works you would do so. Anyway I doubt that 10% of MPs and even less of The Blob know what money actually is and where it comes from. In respect of The Blob if they do finally admit the truth about money and economics 90% of them would be down the road, and they know that. Incentives matters. But on a practical level I recommend you start with Economics in One Lesson by Henry Hazlitt. That will equip you to undo all the dingoes kidneys your children will be taught by the nationalised indoctrination system. Oh, and bring back home ec.

How sad that tried and trusted methods of parenting have faded… That of teaching the difference between prices and values.

The last thing we need is greedy, huge fee charging entities in school… N West seem proud to educate children in schools…

I wonder how much time will be devoted to their misselling, PPI scams, banking discrimination, complete mainframe failures, rebranding away to RBS – then back again after F Crash, removal of buisness managers with no notice to clients, failure of their FS direct salesforces x3, and the looming car finance scandal, and errm.. restricted by space…

That school maths (E.g.) remains stuck in ancient Greece – though, of course, Trig. Calculus, and the rest are useful – surely, more risk and probability would be good. The first rule of banking = either own one or don’t let any of them have anything to do with your money…

Parenting tip… be a great Dad and give children thier own money… so, if hounded, say but I gave you your own so help yourself – children just cannot bear to spend their own cash!!…Bless… :-$

Why not indeed. After all shoes have trees.

Leave a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Money Marketing

Related articles

Subscribe to our newsletters

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees, But We Can Grow the Economy

When we were kids, our parents used to say things that seemed strange, but made sense after a little thought. For instance, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” Of course it doesn’t. You don’t have to tell a kid that; it’s obvious. Nevertheless, some people still fail to completely grasp this lesson. As we grow older, we realize the importance in our own lives of spending less than we make. We know that we must make decisions to balance our budgets, and that if we spend more on one thing we have to spend less on another. Yet somehow, when we move from talking about personal finance to state finances this lesson goes out the window. We know money doesn’t grow on trees, but we sometimes treat it as if it should.

For years, educators and some lawmakers in the state have railed against the legislature for failing to fully fund the foundation formula for K-12 public schools. Last year, one lawmaker said her colleagues “refuse” to fund the formula. While lawmakers could choose to fully fund the formula, they aren’t simply deciding to withhold money without reason. Those dollars have to come from somewhere, which means less funding for other programs.

Indeed, this year lawmakers have passed a budget that increases aid for the foundation formula by $45 million, to a total of $3.4 billion. For the first time since the new formula was enacted in 2006, lawmakers will fully fund the formula.

Did they find that elusive money tree? No, of course not. They simply took the money from somewhere else (and they wisely reinstated a cap to growth of the foundation formula target amount)

One place hit hard by this reallocation of funds was higher education. As a result, higher education administrators are making cuts and laying off staff. (Full disclosure: I am a professor at UMSL which has been negatively impacted by the budget cuts).

State lawmakers have done exactly what you and I do when the budget is tight: shift funds from one thing to another. This will always happen as different administrations prioritize one thing over another. The only way to reduce the need to shift money around is to increase the amount of money available by growing the economy. To do this, policymakers should refer to the Show-Me Institute’s 20 for 2020 policy proposals. We’re far more likely to find new revenue for schools through sensible policy reform than by looking for it on trees.

James V. Shuls

• Publications

Reprint permission for Show-Me Institute publications and commentaries is hereby granted, provided that proper credit is given to the author. We request, but do not require, that those who reprint our material notify us of publication for our records: [email protected] .

© Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

money doesn’t grow on trees

• to have to put an effort in earning money
• money to be earned requires a lot of effort
• to work hard to earn money

Example Sentences

• The kids need to understand that even though they have been born with a silver spoon in their mouths , that money doesn’t grow on trees .
• I have been told over and over again as a child that money doesn’t grow on trees.
• You should listen to our parents and appreciate their hard work because they’re right, money doesn’t grow on trees.
• You know money doesn’t grow on trees and that you cannot stay at your friends’ mercy either.
• I cannot emphasize enough on the fact that money doesn’t grow on trees.
• His kids probably don’t know that money doesn’t grow on trees seeing how much he pampers them with expensive toys and gifts.

The phrase comes from the fact that things that grow on trees is usually easy to pick out but money is not in the same league. Parents often say this to their children to make them aware of the issues they face in putting food on the table. The phrase may have originated in the late 19 th century although no literary origin could be traced with accuracy.

Share your opinions 3 Opinions

If money doesn’t grow on trees and why do bank have branches?

‒ Sinclair February 26, 2024

The quote, “money doesn’t grow on trees” is wrong, seriously, dead wrong! Money does come from trees. From the very trees that provides oxygen for humans to breathe to live and provide shade and coolness from the hot, scorning sun on bright summer days. And if orchard trees, they provides food. As such, existence of comfort lasts a lifetime. If it’s money, it’s more likely spend on oxygens to breathe, electric fans foe coolness, a bag of groceries, and other useless fads and even scammed by human parasities. Yes, money made from dead trees, only give you a “quickie,” on instant gratification, then — poof, it’s gone.

‒ Ashley Mann May 26, 2023

When I was growing up, I never receive any allowance for doing any chores at home. It was part of my responsibility to contribute to our household. Parents provides what we need including a college education. I do hear my mother telling me and my siblings “we buy what is essential as money just do not grow on trees”. I’m reminded of this idiomatic expression since we are now facing recession!

‒ Lourdes Dacuma June 20, 2022

What's on your mind?

Money , Tree

Similar Idioms

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of money doesn't grow on trees in English

Money doesn't grow on trees.

• ante up ( something ) phrasal verb
• burn a hole in someone's pocket idiom
• buying power
• credit limit
• non-contributory
• put someone through something phrasal verb
• put something on your/someone's card
• put something towards something phrasal verb
• run to something phrasal verb
• self-finance

Translations of money doesn't grow on trees

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

the circular black area in the centre of an eye, through which light enters

Skimming through and writing up (Studying phrasal verbs)

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
• English    Idiom
• Translations
• All translations

To add money doesn't grow on trees to a word list please sign up or log in.

Add money doesn't grow on trees to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.

Money Does Not Grow on Trees: An Argument for Usury

• Published: 25 August 2011
• Volume 106 , pages 383–387, ( 2012 )

Cite this article

• Alyssa Labat 1 &
• Walter E. Block 1  

715 Accesses

9 Citations

Explore all metrics

Usury, charging a higher interest rate than thought by some to be “fair,” has had and still has, a bad press. Historically, it was heavily punished. It was then, and all too often is now, thought to be exploitative. Yet, as even the most economically unsophisticated must realize, both sides of these transactions must necessarily gain at least in the ex ante sense, otherwise one or the other would refuse to enter into the deal in the first place. The present paper is an attempt to justify the practice of charging interest on loans, at any rate agreeable to both borrowers and lenders.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Subscribe and save.

• Get 10 units per month
• Download Article/Chapter or eBook
• 1 Unit = 1 Article or 1 Chapter
• Cancel anytime

Price includes VAT (Russian Federation)

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Rent this article via DeepDyve

Institutional subscriptions

Similar content being viewed by others

The Emergence of Money: Computational Approaches with Fully and Boundedly Rational Agents

Sraffa, Money and Distribution

The dictionary defines “usury” as “The practice of lending money and charging the borrower interest, especially at an exorbitant or illegally high rate.” http://www.thefreedictionary.com/usury

More strictly speaking, usury indicates a rate of interest that the speaker or writer finds offensive, for any reason.

In many historical epochs, Jews were forbidden to enter industries other than money lending. See on this: http://answers.encyclopedia.com/question/role-jews-medieval-europe-91156.html .

This is true for many other products as well, when there are risk differentials. For example poor people who live in inner cities typically pay more for groceries than those who live in the richer suburbs. This is because there is more crime in the latter places than in the former. However, the profits earned are about the same. They have to be. For, if they were markedly different, there would be a reallocation of investment from the places with lower to higher profits.

http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-2129 .

http://mises.org/Community/forums/t/20601.aspx .

It is more than difficult to see how this can be true, absent fractional reserve banking.

The Jewish law of ona’ah prohibits usury within this community. See on this Block ( 2002 ).

See also http://www.17-s.info/node/1099 ; actually, in these cases, interest is implicit, not explicit.

On what basis does G make this determination? Fill in the blank here. Interest rates do not come down to us from heaven, written in stone tablets. There is no nonarbitrary way that 5% can be considered a proper rate of interest, and 20% an improper one.

Or LS approaches A, it does not much matter.

This source ( http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8460730.stm ) mentions an interest rate of 1500%. This source ( http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2010/jan/15/loan-sharks-poorest-households ) 825%.

This is why B needs to charge 20% in the first place: to protect itself from such eventualities.

We abstract here from threats to family members, etc.

The preferential option for the poor, a mainstay of Catholic ethical theory, leads in the very opposite direction. Here, we are asked to be particularly conscious of how any legislation will impact the least well off in society. See on this http://www.osjspm.org/option_for_the_poor.aspx ; and http://www.midwestaugustinians.org/justpaxprefopt_aug.html . Also, Block (1988), Jezreel ( 1997 ), Twomey ( 2005 ).

Blackstone, W. (1769). Blackstone’s commentaries on the Laws of England . Oxford, England: Clarendon Press. Print.

Google Scholar  

Block, W. (2002). Ona’ah. International Journal of Social Economics , 29 (9), 722–729. http://www.mises.org/etexts/ona’ah.pdf .

Carrie, A. N.d. How interest-free banking works: The case of JAK. Feasta Review, No. 2; http://www.feasta.org/documents/review2/carrie2.htm .

Dana, R. H., & Wells, D. A. (1881). Usury laws, their nature, expediency and influence: Opinions of Jeremy Bentham and John Calvin, with review of the existing situation and recent experience of the United States . New York: Society for Political Education. Print.

Grow, B., & Epstein, K. (2007, May 21). The poverty business: Inside the U.S. companies’ audacious drive to extract more profits from the nation’s working poor. Businessweek — Business News, Stock Market & Financial Advice . Web. Apr. 2011. http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_21/b4035001.htm .

Jezreel, J. (1997, November). Why the preferential option for the poor is not optional. U.S. Catholic . http://web.archive.org/web/20030101220113/http://www.uscatholic.org/1997/11/featb9711.htm .

Murray, J. B. C. (2011). History of Usury from the earliest period to present time. Openlibrary.org . J.B. Lippincot, 2009. Web. Apr. 2011. http://www.archive.org/stream/cu31924022008142#page/n27/mode/2up .

Rothbard, M. N. (2010, March 3). Salmasius: High-water mark of early modern interest theory. http://mises.org/daily/4069 .

Shatzmiller, J. (1989). The trial of Bondavid. In Shylock reconsidered. Berkeley: University of California. (Print).

Tenney, G. (1977). The social blessings of Usury. Mises Institute . http://mises.org/daily/1977 .

The REAL problem with the economy (Usury and Growth)—(The Mises Community Forums). The Ludwig Von Mises Institute . Web. May 2011. http://mises.org/Community/forums/t/20601.aspx .

Twomey, G. S. (2005). The “Preferential Option for the Poor” in Catholic social thought from John XXIII to John Paul II . New York: Mellen Press.

Usury Rate Limits Reference: Interest Rate Usury Limits for U.S. States. http://www.lectlaw.com/files/ban02.htm .

Walter, B. (1988). Discussion. In R. J. Neuhaus (Ed.), The preferential option for the poor (pp. 87–114). Grand Rapids, MI: William E. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

Watt, L. (1945). What is usury? In Usury . Oxford: Catholic Social Guild. (Print).

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Economics Department, Joseph A. Butt, S.J. College of Business, Loyola University New Orleans, 6363 St. Charles Avenue, Miller Hall 318, Box 15, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA

Alyssa Labat & Walter E. Block

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Walter E. Block .

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Labat, A., Block, W.E. Money Does Not Grow on Trees: An Argument for Usury. J Bus Ethics 106 , 383–387 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-011-1003-x

Download citation

Received : 10 June 2011

Accepted : 09 August 2011

Published : 25 August 2011

Issue Date : March 2012

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-011-1003-x

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Free enterprise
• Economic freedom

JEL classification

• Find a journal
• Publish with us
• Track your research