recession - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
recession Word Meanings
- a period of economic decline
- a retreat from growth
- a temporary downturn in business activity
recession Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
recession Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈsɛʃ.ən/
US
/rɪˈsɛʃ.ən/
recession Word Etymology
re- = again + cedere = to go back. Originated from Latin, then adopted into Old French and English. Imagine a wave receding back into the ocean, symbolizing economic activity pulling back temporarily.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my palm on the desk and push the calendar back a week in my mind, watching the pace slow. I adjust the budget, pull back on big spends and set smaller steps for the month. It feels like turning a wheel, a stubborn shift that asks for patience and careful turn after turn. The sense of recession arrives as a lived reality: activity cools, but I keep my course and ride the temporary downturn.
Real Context
A recession is a period when a country's economy shrinks, typically measured by falling GDP for two consecutive quarters, though the term is used more broadly to describe a sustained downturn in activity across many sectors. It can feature job losses, lower consumer demand, tighter credit, and reduced investment, though the exact trigger and duration vary. People talk about recessions as temporary retreats from growth or as waves pulling back before a new expansion. The word derives from re-cede 'to go back' in Latin, reflecting a return to weaker economic footing after a period of expansion.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'recession' for macroeconomic downturns, not a single company failure.
- Two consecutive quarters of shrinking GDP is a common benchmark.
- It can describe a broad slowdown, not just a drop in one industry.
- Common collocations include 'in a recession' and 'during a recession'.
- Avoid using it to describe everyday price dips or personal finances.
Common Misconceptions
- A recession is not the same as a depression; it is usually shorter and less severe.
- It does not refer to one company going bankrupt or a single failed project.
- Stock market declines do not by themselves define a recession.
- Some sectors may grow even during a recession.
- Policy changes aim to shorten the downturn, not to cause it.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: recession is a macroeconomic cycle, not a personal financial decline; learners often mix it up with 'depression' or with stock-market fall.
Learning Tips
- Pronounce it as re-CEH-shun; stress on the second syllable.
- Learn the related terms: downturn, contraction, slump, depression.
- Pair it with macro nouns: GDP, inflation, unemployment.
- Practice 'in a recession' and 'during a recession' in context.
- Follow real news to see how recessions are discussed.
- Distinguish broad economic trends from individual company performance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'recession'?
A.A period of economic decline
B.A type of vehicle
C.A type of fruit
D.A type of dance
Step 2: Usage
In which context would you use the word 'recession'?
A.Talking about a new movie release
B.Discussing a recent job promotion
C.Explaining a drop in GDP
D.Sharing vacation plans
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'recession'?
A.Elation
B.Depression
C.Success
D.Excitement
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'recession'?
A.Slump
B.Stagnation
C.Decline
D.Boom
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life situation where 'recession' would be used?
A.A birthday party celebration
B.A record-breaking sales quarter for a company
C.A country facing high unemployment rates and reduced consumer spending
D.A successful investment portfolio
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