economical

 
Pronunciation: /iːkəˈnɒmɪk(ə)l, ɛk-/

adjective

  • giving good value or return in relation to the money, time, or effort expended: a small, economical car
  • (of a person or lifestyle) careful not to waste money or resources: he was economical in all areas of life
  • using no more of something than is necessary: the cast are economical with their actions

Phrases

be economical with the truth

euphemistic lie or deliberately withhold information: the government spokesman was often economical with the truth
[from a statement given in evidence by Sir Robert Armstrong, British cabinet secretary, in the ‘Spycatcher’ trial (1986), conducted to prevent publication of a book by a former MI5 employee]