money doesn't grow on trees
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
Wealth cannot be obtained without some effort; hence currency is not always available for a prospective purchase.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Perhaps it was a Scotsman who, in response to an idea for lavish expenditure, first said "Money doesn't grow on trees".
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “money doesn't grow on trees” mean?
Wealth cannot be obtained without some effort; hence currency is not always available for a prospective purchase.
Is “money doesn't grow on trees” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.