The correct spelling of the phrase, "more penny wise," is /mɔːr ˈpɛni waɪz/. The first word, "more," is spelled as it sounds and means an increased amount. The second word, "penny," is spelled with a double 'n' and 'y' and refers to the smallest unit of currency. The last word, "wise," is spelled with a 'w' and 's' and means having or showing good sense or practical judgement. "More penny wise" therefore means being even more careful with money.
The phrase "more penny wise" refers to being excessively frugal, concentrated on saving or spending money wisely, often to the point of being overly cautious or stingy. It is an extension of the idiom "penny wise, pound foolish," which means focusing on small savings or being economical in trivial matters while neglecting the larger financial picture.
Being "more penny wise" suggests a heightened level of frugality or extreme thriftiness in one's approach to handling money. It implies an excessive preoccupation with small financial details and a constant search for ways to save even minor amounts. This attitude may stem from an individual's desire to maximize their resources or limited income, but it can also indicate a fear or insecurity about financial stability.
While being frugal and smart with money is generally a prudent approach, being "more penny wise" can have drawbacks. This excessive focus on small savings can lead to excessive time and effort spent on minor decisions, potentially causing missed opportunities for larger financial gains. It can also impact personal relationships as others may perceive the individual as overly tight-fisted or ungenerous.
Overall, the phrase "more penny wise" implies an intensified commitment to thriftiness, implying a mindset that prioritizes saving money at every turn, sometimes to the detriment of broader financial goals or well-being.