165 Common Expressions About Money for Everyday English

If you are an ESL teacher, this post is perfect for you. It has common expressions about money that your students need to learn. Money is an important topic in daily life. Talking about money helps students practice useful conversations.

In this post, you will find expressions for many situations. From asking to borrow money to shopping and saving. These phrases help students speak more naturally and confidently. You can use them to teach money vocabulary and build speaking skills.

This list also works well for conversation questions, role-plays, and debates in your class. Students can practice real-life situations and improve their communication. Using these expressions makes learning more interesting and practical.

By reading this post, you get a ready-made resource for your lessons. It saves you time and gives you ideas to make your class fun and useful. Your students will thank you for helping them speak about money easily!

How Common Money Expressions Help Students Speak Better

Talking about money is something we do every day. Whether it’s buying groceries, saving for a trip, or paying bills, money is part of many conversations. For ESL students, learning how to talk about money is very useful. It helps them handle real-life situations with confidence.

In this post, you will find common expressions about money. These phrases are easy to use and important to know. They cover many topics like borrowing money, shopping, saving, and even talking to a bank. Learning these expressions will help students improve their speaking and listening skills.

Using these expressions in class can also make lessons more fun. You can create role-plays, ask questions, or hold debates about money. This way, students practice speaking in a natural way. It also helps build their vocabulary and makes them ready for everyday conversations.

Let’s start exploring these expressions so your students can talk about money clearly and comfortably. This will give them more confidence in their English skills and in real life too.

Now let’s explore the common expressions about money.

Asking a Friend to Lend You Money

Common Expression	Situation
Can you spot me?	You need a small amount of money urgently (e.g., forgot your wallet).
Could I borrow some cash?	You’re politely asking a friend to lend you some money.
I’m a little short right now.	You don’t have enough money to pay for something.
I’ll pay you back next week.	You’re assuring your friend you will return the money soon.
Just until payday, if that’s okay.	You’re asking for money temporarily, until you get paid.
I’m in a bit of a tight spot.	You’re in a difficult financial situation and need some help.
I hate to ask, but…	You’re feeling uncomfortable or shy about asking for money.

Returning Borrowed Money

Common Expression	Situation
Here’s the money I owe you.	You are giving back the money you borrowed.
Thanks again for helping me out.	You’re showing appreciation for the person’s support.
I really appreciate it.	You’re expressing gratitude for the favor.
Just wanted to settle up.	You want to clear the debt and finish the transaction.
Sorry it took so long.	You’re apologizing for the delay in returning the money.
I’ve got your money now.	You’re letting the person know you’re ready to pay them back.
Let me return the favor someday.	You’re offering to help them in the future in return for their kindness.

Talking About Monthly Budget

Common Expression	Situation
I’m on a tight budget.	You have limited money to spend each month.
I need to cut back this month.	You plan to reduce your expenses for the month.
My expenses are piling up.	Your bills and costs are increasing quickly.
I’ve got to stick to my budget.	You are trying hard not to spend more than you planned.
Rent eats up most of my income.	A large part of your income goes toward paying rent.
I track all my spending.	You keep a record of everything you buy.
My paycheck doesn’t go far.	Your salary isn’t enough to cover all your needs easily.

Buying Something on Sale

Common Expression	Situation
It was 50% off!	You bought something at half the original price.
I got it on clearance.	You bought an item that was heavily discounted to clear stock.
It was a steal!	You got something for a much lower price than usual — a great deal.
I couldn’t pass up the deal.	The offer was so good that you had to buy it.
It was marked down.	The price of the item was reduced.
That sale was too good to miss.	The discount was so great you felt you had to take advantage of it.
I love finding bargains.	You enjoy shopping for discounted or low-priced items.

Asking for a Discount at a Store

Common Expression	Situation
Is there a student discount?	You’re asking if there’s a special price for students.
Can you do any better on the price?	You’re trying to negotiate or ask for a lower price.
Is this the final price?	You’re checking if the price is negotiable or fixed.
Do you have any coupons?	You’re asking if there are discount vouchers available.
I’m on a budget—any chance for a discount?	You’re explaining your financial situation while politely asking for a deal.
Can I get a deal if I pay in cash?	You’re asking if cash payment can get you a better price.

Paying with Cash or Card

Common Expression	Situation
Do you take cards?	You’re asking if the store accepts debit or credit card payments.
I’ll pay with cash.	You’re letting the cashier know you’re using physical money.
I don’t have any change.	You only have large bills or no coins to give exact amount.
Can I tap to pay?	You’re asking if you can use contactless payment with your card or phone.
Debit or credit?	You’re asking which type of card is being used or accepted.
I left my wallet at home!	You forgot your wallet and can’t pay at the moment.
Here’s your change.	The cashier is returning the extra money after your cash payment.

Opening a Bank Account

Common Expression	Situation
I’d like to open a savings account.	You’re requesting to open a new savings account at the bank.
What are the fees?	You’re asking about any service charges or account maintenance costs.
Is there a minimum balance?	You’re checking if you must keep a certain amount in the account.
Do you offer student accounts?	You’re asking if the bank has special accounts for students.
I need to bring ID, right?	You’re confirming if identification is required to open the account.
What’s the interest rate?	You’re asking how much interest the account will earn.

Withdrawing Money from an ATM

Common Expression	Situation
I need to grab some cash.	You’re saying you need to withdraw money from an ATM.
The ATM is down again.	The ATM is not working—possibly out of service or offline.
I’m out of cash.	You don’t have any money with you.
I’ll stop by the ATM.	You’re planning to visit an ATM to withdraw money.
There’s a withdrawal limit.	You’re referring to the maximum amount you can take out at once.

Talking to a Bank Teller

Common Expression	Situation
I’d like to deposit this check.	You want to put a check into your bank account.
Can I withdraw from my account?	You’re asking to take money out of your account.
I need a bank statement.	You’re requesting a printed or digital summary of your account activity.
Can I speak to a manager?	You need assistance from someone in authority at the bank.
What’s my current balance?	You’re asking how much money is currently in your account.
There’s a charge I don’t recognize.	You’ve noticed an unfamiliar transaction and want clarification.

Reporting a Lost Credit Card

Common Expression	Situation
I need to report a lost card.	You’ve lost your card and want to inform the bank or provider.
My card was stolen.	You’re reporting that someone took your credit or debit card.
Can you block the card?	You’re asking the bank to stop all transactions on the lost/stolen card.
I need a replacement card.	You’re requesting a new card to replace the lost/stolen one.
I saw suspicious activity.	You noticed unusual transactions on your account.
Please cancel the card immediately.	You want the bank to deactivate the card right away for security.

Talking About Saving Money

Common Expression	Situation
I’m trying to save more.	You want to keep more money instead of spending it.
I’m cutting back on expenses.	You’re reducing how much you spend.
I put a little aside each month.	You save a small amount of money regularly.
I’ve started a savings plan.	You’ve created a specific plan to save money over time.
I’m saving up for something big.	You’re collecting money to buy or do something important.
Every little bit helps.	Small amounts of saved money can add up over time.

Discussing How to Save for a Trip

Common Expression	Situation
I’m setting a travel budget.	You’re planning how much money to spend on your trip.
I’m skipping coffee to save.	You’re cutting small expenses to save money.
I’ve started a travel fund.	You have a special savings account or jar just for travel money.
Flights are cheaper if you book early.	You’re sharing a tip about saving on travel costs.
I’m trying to travel on a shoestring.	You’re trying to travel with as little money as possible.

Shopping at a Street Market

Common Expression	Situation
Can you give me a better price?	You’re asking the seller to lower the price.
That’s too expensive.	You think the price is too high.
How much for this one?	You’re asking for the price of a specific item.
I only have 500 taka.	You’re telling the seller your budget limit.
I’m just browsing.	You’re looking around without planning to buy immediately.
That’s a bit over my budget.	The item costs more than you can spend.

Paying the Bill at a Restaurant

Common Expression	Situation
Can we get the check, please?	You’re asking the waiter for the bill.
I’ll cover it this time.	You’re offering to pay for everyone on this occasion.
It’s on me.	You’re telling others you will pay the bill.
Do you take cards?	You’re asking if payment by card is accepted.
The bill’s a bit steep!	You think the bill is more expensive than expected.
Let’s split it.	You’re suggesting everyone pays their own part of the bill.

Splitting the Bill with Friends

Common Expression	Situation
Let’s go Dutch.	Everyone pays for their own meal separately.
We’ll split it evenly.	The total bill will be divided equally among everyone.
I’ll Venmo you later.	You’ll send money to your friend electronically later.
Who had the steak?	You’re clarifying who ordered a specific dish to split costs accurately.
I’ll just pay for what I ordered.	You prefer to pay only for your own food or drinks.

Talking About a Big Purchase

Common Expression	Situation
I finally bought a car!	You’re excited about making a major purchase.
It cost a fortune.	The item was very expensive.
I’ve been saving up for months.	You saved money over time to afford it.
I got a great deal on it.	You bought it at a good price.
It was a big investment.	The purchase was significant and important financially.

Borrowing Money from Parents

Common Expression	Situation
Can you help me out this month?	You’re asking your parents for financial help temporarily.
I promise I’ll pay you back.	You assure them you will return the money.
Just until my next paycheck.	You explain the loan is short-term.
Thanks for always being there.	You express gratitude for their support.

Lending Money to a Friend

Common Expression	Situation
Just make sure you pay me back.	You remind your friend to return the money.
I trust you.	You express confidence your friend will repay you.
I can only lend a little.	You explain you don’t have much money to lend.
Don’t worry about it—it’s a gift.	You tell your friend they don’t need to pay you back.
Let’s write it down.	You suggest recording the loan details to avoid misunderstandings.

Talking About Online Shopping

Common Expression	Situation
I ordered it online.	You bought something using the internet.
Shipping was free.	You didn’t have to pay extra for delivery.
I found it cheaper on another site.	You discovered a better price somewhere else.
It’s still in my cart.	You’ve added items to your online shopping cart but haven’t paid yet.
I love shopping from home.	You enjoy buying things without leaving the house.

Buying a Gift on a Budget

Common Expression	Situation
I found something thoughtful but cheap.	You bought a meaningful gift without spending much.
It’s the thought that counts.	You emphasize that the value of the gift is in the sentiment, not price.
I had to get creative.	You found an imaginative or unusual way to give a gift.
I made something instead.	You gave a handmade gift rather than buying one.

Selling Something You Don’t Need

Common Expression	Situation
I’m selling it online.	You’re offering an item for sale using the internet.
I posted it on Facebook Marketplace.	You shared your item for sale on a popular social media platform.
I’m decluttering.	You’re getting rid of things you no longer need.
It’s still in good condition.	The item you’re selling is not damaged or worn out.
I got a fair price.	You received a reasonable amount of money for the item.

Planning a Weekly Grocery Budget

Common Expression	Situation
I made a meal plan.	You planned your meals ahead to manage grocery shopping better.
I shop with a list.	You bring a shopping list to avoid buying unnecessary items.
I try not to overspend.	You’re careful about how much money you spend on groceries.
I look for deals and discounts.	You search for lower prices or special offers.
I buy in bulk to save.	You purchase large quantities to get better prices.

Comparing Prices Before Buying

Common Expression	Situation
I always check a few stores first.	You look at multiple places before deciding where to buy.
I look for the best deal.	You try to find the lowest price or best value.
It’s cheaper online.	You noticed the item costs less on the internet.
I use price comparison apps.	You use technology to compare prices quickly.
I wait for price drops.	You delay buying until prices go down.

Talking About Wasting Money

Common Expression	Situation
I totally wasted my money.	You feel your purchase was a complete loss.
That was a bad buy.	You regret buying something.
It wasn’t worth the price.	The item did not justify the amount you paid.
I regret spending on that.	You feel sorry for the money spent.
I should’ve saved it.	You think you should have kept your money instead.

Returning a Broken Product

Common Expression	Situation
I need to return this.	You want to give back a product you bought.
It’s defective.	The product is damaged or doesn’t work properly.
Do you have a return policy?	You ask about the rules for returning items.
I’d like a refund.	You want your money back for the returned product.
I have the receipt.	You have proof of purchase to support your return.

Explaining a Bank Statement

Common Expression	Situation
That’s my rent payment.	You identify a transaction as your rent.
That charge looks wrong.	You notice a suspicious or incorrect fee.
This is my paycheck deposit.	You recognize your salary being deposited.
I don’t recognize this fee.	You’re unsure about an unknown charge.
I need help understanding this.	You ask for assistance in reading your bank statement.

Talking About a Part-Time Job

Common Expression	Situation
I work part-time after class.	You have a job with fewer hours, usually outside your main study time.
It helps cover my bills.	Your earnings assist with paying expenses.
I’m saving what I earn.	You keep some money instead of spending it all.
It’s not much, but it helps.	The income is small but useful.
I just started a side gig.	You recently began an additional job or project for extra money.

Saving for a Special Event

Common Expression	Situation
I’m putting money aside for the wedding.	You are saving money specifically for a wedding.
We’re budgeting for the party.	You are planning how to spend money for a celebration.
It’s going to be pricey.	You expect the event to cost a lot of money.
We’re cutting corners where we can.	You’re trying to reduce costs to save money.
I’m trying not to go over budget.	You want to avoid spending more than planned.

Arguing Over Money with a Roommate

Common Expression	Situation
You never pay your share on time.	You’re frustrated because your roommate is late with money owed.
We need to talk about expenses.	You want to discuss financial responsibilities clearly.
That’s not fair—I paid last month.	You feel the money division is unequal or unfair.
Let’s make a budget together.	You suggest planning finances as a team.
We need to split things evenly.	You want to divide costs fairly among roommates.

Giving Money Advice to a Friend

Common Expression	Situation
You should start saving early.	Advising someone to begin saving money as soon as possible.
Try to track your spending.	Suggesting to keep a record of expenses to manage money better.
Make a budget and stick to it.	Recommending to plan spending limits and follow them.
Don’t live beyond your means.	Warning against spending more money than you earn.
Avoid credit card debt if you can.	Advising to be careful with credit cards to prevent debt problems.

Conclusion

Talking about money is a key skill for ESL learners. Using common expressions about money helps students speak more naturally and confidently.

By practicing these phrases, students improve their vocabulary and feel ready for real conversations. Role-plays, questions, and debates make learning fun and practical.

This resource gives you many useful expressions to use in your lessons. It will save you time and help your students succeed.

Keep encouraging your students to practice talking about money every day. It will boost their English and prepare them for life with an interest in money management.

FAQs about Using Money Expressions in ESL Class

Q: How can I introduce these expressions to my students?
A: Start with simple conversations or role-plays using a few expressions. Gradually add more as students become comfortable.

Q: Can I use these expressions for different levels of learners?
A: Yes, many expressions are basic and useful for beginners, while others suit intermediate or advanced students.

Q: How do I help students remember these expressions?
A: Use repetition through practice activities like dialogues, games, and debates. Encourage students to use them in real-life situations.

Q: Are these expressions suitable for cultural differences?
A: Most expressions are common in everyday English, but you can explain cultural context when needed to avoid confusion.

Q: How can I check if students understand and use the expressions correctly?
A: Use role-plays, quizzes, and group discussions to assess their understanding and ability to use the expressions naturally.

Q: Can I combine these expressions with grammar lessons?
A: Absolutely! Teaching the expressions with relevant grammar points makes learning more complete and meaningful.

Q: What if students feel shy using money expressions?
A: Create a supportive environment, use pair or small group work, and start with simple phrases to build confidence.