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This reference explores the idiomatic expression “money talks,” providing insight into its meaning, use in conversation, and alternatives that convey a similar message.
By referencing various examples, you can develop a better grasp of how this phrase fits into daily speech and writing. Additionally, there is an explanation of the phrase’s origin, offering further context to its significance and application.
Money Talks Meaning, Origin and Usage
Key Takeaways
- The phrase “money talks” means that money has power and influence. It suggests that those with financial resources can easily persuade, gain favors, or make things happen, often more effectively than words or promises. The phrase emphasizes how money can open doors and sway decisions.
What Does “Money Talks” Mean?
The phrase “money talks” means that money has power and influence, often more than words or actions. It suggests that those who have money can easily persuade or make things happen because financial resources can open doors, gain favors, and sway decisions. The phrase highlights how money can be a significant force in achieving goals or getting what one wants.
Origin of this Idiom
The idiomatic phrase dates back to the fifth century B.C. The idiom was first stated by Euripedes and 2,000 years passed before Erasmus spoke on the power of money. Today’s meaning of the phrase was not adopted until sometime in the 1900s.
Usage of “Money Talks”
- Business Deals:
- “The company managed to close the deal quickly because they offered a generous payment. Money talks.”
- (The large payment persuaded the other party to agree to the deal.)
- Influence in Politics:
- “It’s no surprise that the candidate with the biggest donors won the election—money talks.”
- (Financial backing played a major role in the candidate’s success.)
- Priority Treatment:
- “He got the last-minute concert tickets by paying extra; money talks.”
- (The extra payment secured tickets that were otherwise unavailable.)
- Access to Opportunities:
- “She managed to get her startup noticed because she had investors backing her. Money talks.”
- (The financial support helped gain attention and opportunities for the startup.)
The phrase is often used to highlight how money can make things happen more quickly or easily, reflecting its power and influence in various situations.
Related Terms to “Money Talks”
- Cash is king – Money holds the most power and influence.
- Power of the purse – The ability to control or influence decisions through financial means.
- Money makes the world go round – Money is essential and drives many aspects of life.
- Grease the wheels – Using money to make processes smoother or easier.
- Financial clout – The power or influence that comes with having money.
- Put your money where your mouth is – Back up words with financial action or investment.
- Money is power – Having money gives one the ability to influence or control.
- Deep pockets – Having significant financial resources or wealth.
- Buying influence – Using money to sway opinions or decisions.
- He who pays the piper calls the tune – The person providing the money has the control or makes the decisions.
Other Ways to Say “Money Talks”
As with all idioms, the phrase “money talks” can be said in many different ways. Other things you could say instead include I guess people with money have the power, money is power or great wealth implies great power.
“Money Talks” synonyms:
- Money is power
- Wealth is power
- Money gives one influence
- Wealth has great influence
“Money Talks” Examples
Examples in Statements
A statement made by a politician who lost a recent election.
- “I thought that I had a great chance of being elected. However, my opponent has a lot more money to me and as they say, money talks.”
A statement made at a local black-tie charity event by a well-known celebrity.
- “This should be an event for everyone, but here money talks.”
Examples in Conversations
A conversation between two co-workers regarding the recent merger of their company.
- Co-worker 1: I can’t believe we now work for this other company. The boss said he would never sell.
- Co-worker 2: Well, money talks. I guess the other company finally offered him enough to change his mind.
A conversation between two friends.
- Friend 1: Did you get a spot in the local beauty pageant?
- Friend 2: No! Someone came in at the last second and her dad is a doctor at the local hospital. She is rich and they let her have the spot instead. I guess it pays to be rich and the adage money talks is as true as it ever was.
Other examples:
- Money talks means that people with a lot of money have power and influence.
- We can’t compete against rich old Mr. Hu. He’ll get his way because money talks.
- He hired the best lawyers and won the case, money talks.
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