cash money: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, Slang (especially in its extended meaning)
Quick answer
What does “cash money” mean?
Physical currency in the form of banknotes and coins.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Physical currency in the form of banknotes and coins.
Ready money, especially in large amounts, that is immediately spendable; often used to emphasize liquidity, authenticity, or financial success.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is used in both varieties, but its popularity as a slang/cultural term for wealth is significantly stronger in American English due to its origins in US hip-hop culture.
Connotations
In British English, it more commonly retains its literal meaning. In American English, the slang connotation of 'legitimate, impressive wealth' is more immediately recognized.
Frequency
Higher frequency in American English, especially in informal and music-related contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “cash money” in a Sentence
[have/get/spend] + cash money[pay/be] + in cash moneyVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cash money” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He managed to cash money in from his premium bonds.
American English
- They're looking to cash money out of their investments.
adverb
American English
- He paid for it cash money, right on the spot.
adjective
British English
- It was a cash-money transaction, no records kept.
American English
- He's a cash-money player, always betting with physical bills.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to immediate liquidity; 'The deal requires cash money upfront.'
Academic
Rare except in economics discussing M0 (narrow money) or the cash economy.
Everyday
Used literally for physical money; 'Do you have any cash money for the parking meter?'
Technical
In finance, distinguishes physical currency from other monetary aggregates.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cash money”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cash money”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cash money”
- Using it in formal writing where 'cash' alone is sufficient.
- Incorrectly hyphenating as 'cash-money' in standard prose.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Literally, yes, as 'cash' is a type of money. However, the phrase is used for emphasis, clarity (against e.g., 'mobile money'), or as a fixed cultural/slang term.
Informally, yes, particularly in American slang to mean 'legitimately profitable' or 'involving real cash', e.g., 'a cash-money business'.
It gained widespread popularity from American hip-hop culture in the 1990s/2000s, notably through the record label 'Cash Money Records', to emphasize real, spendable wealth.
Almost always use 'cash'. 'Cash money' is informal and often redundant in formal contexts.
Physical currency in the form of banknotes and coins.
Cash money: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkæʃ ˈmʌn.i/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæʃ ˈmʌn.i/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Cash is king”
- “Money talks”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the sound of cash register (CASH) and the feel of paper money (MONEY) in your hand.
Conceptual Metaphor
MONEY IS A LIQUID (cash flow, liquidity), MONEY IS POWER.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'cash money' MOST likely used in its extended, slang meaning?