parsimony
What does "parsimony" mean?
Parsimony describes the quality of being extremely unwilling to spend money or use resources. Think of someone who counts every penny and squeezes the last drop out of a tube of toothpaste; it is the absolute opposite of being generous or extravagant. In scientific and academic contexts, however, it takes on a more positive nuance known as "Occam's razor." Here, it refers to the principle of choosing the simplest explanation or theory that fits all the facts, avoiding unnecessary complexity. It is commonly used in phrases like "the law of parsimony" or "parsimonious explanation."
"parsimony" in conversation
Discussing a budget
We need to cut costs for the project.
We need to cut costs for the project.
I agree, but let's not confuse parsimony with efficiency. We still need quality materials.
I agree, but let's not confuse parsimony with efficiency. We still need quality materials.
Distinguishes between being careful with money and being excessively stingy.
Scientific debate
Your hypothesis has too many moving parts.
Your hypothesis has too many moving parts.
Should I apply the principle of parsimony then?
Should I apply the principle of parsimony then?
Exactly. Simplify it until only the essential variables remain.
Exactly. Simplify it until only the essential variables remain.
Shows the use of parsimony in an academic, logical context.
"parsimony" in a sentence
His parsimony was legendary; he refused to even buy a second pair of shoes.
His parsimony was legendary; he refused to even buy a second pair of shoes.
In science, we prefer the most parsimonious theory that explains the observed data.
In science, we prefer the most parsimonious theory that explains the observed data.
The board's sudden parsimony regarding research funding led to a significant decline in innovation.
The board's sudden parsimony regarding research funding led to a significant decline in innovation.
