Do you think people should talk more openly about how much they earn and spend?

A natural way to answer

I think a degree of openness is healthy. A culture of total secrecy around money tends to benefit those who already hold the cards. Greater transparency could help level the playing field, though it does need a certain amount of tact.

Key phrases to use

• short-changed — treated unfairly by being given less than you deserve“She felt short-changed by her low salary.”
• hold the cards — to have the power or advantage in a situation“In that deal, the seller held all the cards.”
• level the playing field — to make a situation fairer so everyone has an equal chance“Sharing salary info helps level the playing field.”
• out of pocket — having lost money or paid for something yourself“I was left out of pocket after the trip.”