Economic or Economical?

What Is the Difference between "Economic" and "Economical"?

"Economic" and "economical" are often treated as synonyms (i.e., words that mean the same), but they are different.

• "Economic" pertains to the economy. For example:
• Today's poor economic conditions are taking their toll on new companies.
• "Economical" means not wasteful. For example:
• My new car is more economical than my motorbike.

More about "Economic" and "Economical"

Economic

The adjective "economic" pertains to the economy, finances, or wealth.

Example sentences with "economic":

• The economic deceleration will likely cause a further fall in unemployment.
• The host will interview the winners and losers from the current economic situation.
• It's not about money - he is fine from an economic perspective.

Economical

The adjective "economical" describes something that saves money or resources or is not wasteful of money or resources.

Example sentences with "economical":

• It has a powerful yet economical engine that is suitable for high-mileage drivers.
• The most practical and economical way to see Brazil is by air.

Common Terms With Economic and Economical

Here are some common terms with "economic" and "economical":

Economic

• economic analysis
• economic boom
• economic climate
• economic capital
• economic development
• economic downturn
• economic market
• economic outlook
• economic quarter
• economic recovery
• economic uncertainty
• economic year

Economical

• economical boiler
• economical car
• economical fridge
• economical meals
• economical option
• economical with the truth

The Adverb Is "Economically" for Both

The adverb is easy – it's "economically" for "economic" and "economical." For example:

• Economically, the country is in good shape.
• The car runs economically.