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recessionary

C1
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /rɪsˈɛʃənəri/

US

  • /riˈsɛʃəˌnɛri/

Description

The term "recessionary" describes things connected to an economic recession, a period when the economy is shrinking and business activity is weaker for a while. It does not just mean that the economy is doing badly. It describes conditions that are shaped by that downturn or that may lead to one. You might hear about "recessionary pressures" building up, meaning forces are pushing the economy toward a recession. You could also hear "recessionary fears," which means worries people have when they see signs of slower growth, weaker spending, or job losses. The word is more exact than simply saying things are bad because it links those problems to a broader economic downturn.

Examples

  1. 1

    Business climate

    Many small businesses struggled in the recessionary climate after consumer spending dropped.

  2. 2

    Company planning

    The company delayed hiring because recessionary fears were spreading.

    • Phrase

      recessionary fears

      worries that the economy may enter a recession

  3. 3

    Interest rates

    High interest rates can be recessionary if they reduce borrowing too sharply.

  4. 4

    Budget cuts

    Several economists warned that sudden budget cuts would have a recessionary effect on the region.

    • Phrase

      have a recessionary effect

      make the economy weaker or more likely to shrink

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • recessionaryadjective