Austerity: meaning, definitions and examples

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austerity

[ ɒˈstɛrɪti ]

^{Context #1}

economic policy

Austerity is a set of policies that aim to reduce government budget deficits through spending cuts, tax increases, or a combination of both. It is often implemented during times of economic hardship to restore fiscal balance.

Synonyms

belt-tightening, budget cuts, fiscal discipline

Examples of usage

A country may adopt austerity measures to tackle a growing national debt.
The government imposed austerity on public services to control inflation.
The austerity program led to protests and strikes across the country.

^{Context #2}

lifestyle

Austerity can also refer to a way of living that is characterized by simplicity, frugality, and self-discipline. It often involves avoiding luxury or unnecessary expenses.

Synonyms

frugality, self-discipline, simplicity

Examples of usage

She chose a life of austerity, preferring minimalism over materialism.
His commitment to austerity allowed him to save money for future investments.

Translations

Translations of the word "austerity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 austeridade

🇮🇳 कठोरता

🇩🇪 Sparsamkeit

🇮🇩 penghematan

🇺🇦 суворість

🇵🇱 surowość

🇯🇵 厳しさ (きびしさ)

🇫🇷 austérité

🇪🇸 austeridad

🇹🇷 kemer sıkma

🇰🇷 긴축

🇸🇦 تقشف

🇨🇿 přísnost

🇸🇰 prísnosť

🇨🇳 紧缩 (jǐnsuō)

🇸🇮 strogost

🇮🇸 strangleiki

🇰🇿 қатаңдық

🇬🇪 სიმკაცრე

🇦🇿 sərtlik

🇲🇽 austeridad

Word origin

The word 'austerity' originated from the Latin word 'austeritas', which means harshness or severity. It first appeared in English in the 14th century with the meaning of sternness or severity in appearance or manner. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the modern economic and lifestyle meanings we associate with it today.