Bean counter Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A 'bean counter' is an informal and often negative term for someone, especially an accountant, who is very focused on financial details and budgets, sometimes without considering the bigger picture.
Usage & Nuances
This term is informal, slightly insulting, and mainly used in business contexts. It criticizes someone as overly concerned with numbers, not strategy or creativity. Used for accountants, auditors, or finance staff. Not for formal writing unless quoting.
Example Sentences
Our company has too many bean counters making decisions.
basic
He doesn't like working with bean counters.
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The bean counter said we spend too much.
basic
Every idea gets killed by the bean counters in finance.
natural
Don't let the bean counters stop you from being creative.
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As soon as the project gets expensive, the bean counters show up.
natural