Learn English – What does “don’t get cheap on me” mean

idiomsphrase-meaning

It is perhaps one of the most famous quotes in the Jurassic Park movie:

Dennis Nedry: Don't get cheap on me, Dodgson. That was Hammond's mistake.
Source: IMDb > Dennis Nedry (Character) > Quotes

Can anyone please tell me what it means exactly?

Best Answer

I don't recall the context in the movie, but in general:

cheap: inexpensive or of poor quality.

I got an extra dozen eggs this week because they were cheap.

I didn't buy the bookcase because it looked flimsy and cheap.

slang: "cheap shot" is a verbal or physical attack that is very easy and considered cheating)

The comment about Andy's hair was a cheap shot, he already feels bad about it.

"Cheap" can refer to either the cost of a thing, or to describe a person that only likes cheap things.

My Dad is too cheap to buy new paint.

"Don't _ on me": Don't do this around me or to me or in a way that affects me.

Don't eat all the ice cream on me.

So the phrase "Don't get cheap on me." could mean one of:

  • You need to spend more money/time on something for me.
  • You need to think about money less.
  • You should not tease/attack me like that.