Learn German phrases Den Gürtel enger schnallen

The phrase "Den Gürtel enger schnallen" is often used when talking about saving money or facing tough times. Literally, it means making your belt tighter—perhaps because you've lost weight. But figuratively, it describes the need to cut back on luxuries and live frugally, for example, when money is tight or when you're saving for a goal.
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In our lesson, we’ll explore how this expression is used in different situations. What can you do when you need to tighten your belt? How can you save money without losing all the joy in life? Let’s discover it together!

VIP Tuesday 8 pm class

Ich muss den Gürtel enger schnallen.
I need to tighten my belt.


Er schnallt den Gürtel enger, weil er weniger Geld hat.
He’s tightening his belt because he has less money.


Nach dem Jobverlust schnallt er den Gürtel enger.
After losing his job, he tightens his belt.

Ich schnalle den Gürtel enger, um Schulden zu zahlen.
I’m tightening my belt to pay debts.