proverb · Words worth keeping
That penny is well spent that saves a groat.
That penny is well spent that saves a groat.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A small expense can be worthwhile if it prevents a larger avoidable cost. Judge the effect of spending, rather than treating every payment as a loss regardless of what it accomplishes.
Example
A group buys a suitable protective folder for borrowed drawings rather than risk damaging them during transport and needing replacements.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The penny and groat stand for a smaller outlay and a larger saving. The proverb argues that refusing to spend anything can sometimes be less economical than paying for an appropriate check, repair or preparation. Its focus is on the consequence of the expense, not the satisfaction of keeping the immediate amount. It does not make every purchase described as a saving worthwhile. The claimed benefit needs to fit the situation and be credible. The useful comparison includes what happens if the expense is avoided, instead of considering the price in isolation from its purpose.
When to use it
Use it when a modest, relevant expense could prevent a larger foreseeable loss.
Keep in mind
A claimed saving is not proof of value; check whether the expense is actually needed and likely to help.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English