self-restraint; strict with oneself; frugal
Meanings
3 senses · 8 examplesverb
to restrain one's selfish desires; to be strict with oneself
formalA classical virtue often used in formal or moral contexts.
He was strict with himself and dedicated to public service his whole life, earning great respect.
A gentleman should restrain himself and return to propriety.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
In the face of personal gain, he always manages to exercise self-restraint.
adjective
(of a store) claiming to have low prices and modest profit margins
formalA traditional advertising phrase to suggest honesty and fairness in pricing.
The sign 'Genuine goods at fair prices, modest profits for the benefit of people' hangs at the entrance of this store.
Merchants of old often took 'modest profit' as their business philosophy.
adjective
frugal; economical; sparing in personal expenses
formalDescribes a personal lifestyle of thrift and simplicity.
He lives a frugal and simple life, never being extravagant or wasteful.
The old man has been frugal all his life, saving up a considerable amount.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
This frugal lifestyle is worth learning from.