money doesn't grow on trees

/ˈmʌni ˈdʌznt ˌɡrəʊ ɒn ˈtriːz/INFORMAL · B2

Meaning

money is limited, so you should not waste it

Examples

1You cannot have a new tablet every year; money doesn't grow on trees.
2Money doesn't grow on trees, so please look after your school uniform.
3Stop ordering things we cannot afford; money doesn't grow on trees.
4Money doesn't grow on trees; we cannot keep replacing headphones that you lose.
5When I asked for another expensive toy, Mum reminded me that money doesn't grow on trees.

Grammar

A fixed negative clause. Money takes singular agreement; does not is the uncontracted alternative to doesn’t.

Similar in meaning

save for a rainy day

More idioms about money

All 20 idioms and the topic quiz →

penny-pinchingunwilling to spend money cost an arm and a legto be very expensive break the bankto cost more than you can afford tighten your beltto spend less money than before make ends meetto have just enough money to live on pay through the noseto pay far too much for something

English Idioms

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