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Cheapening Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ต
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cheapening

[หˆtสƒiหpษ™nษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

reduce value

Cheapening refers to the act of making something less valuable, either literally or figuratively. This can occur through various means such as lowering prices, diluting quality, or increasing availability. It is often used to describe the devaluation of goods, services, or even abstract concepts, like reputation or integrity. The term can be associated with negative connotations, suggesting a loss of quality or prestige.

Synonyms

devaluation, diminution, undervaluation.

Examples of usage

  • The mass production of goods led to the cheapening of traditional craftsmanship.
  • Cheapening the brand can alienate loyal customers.
  • The influx of similar products has resulted in the cheapening of the market.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • In markets, 'cheapening' can lead to inflation if it undervalues goods, affecting purchasing power.
  • When a product is mass-produced, its price may drop, often leading to its cheapening, which can impact quality.
  • Some argue that 'cheapening' can stimulate demand since lower prices can attract more buyers.

Culture

  • In art, cheapening can occur when reproductions dilute an artist's original workโ€™s significance.
  • Cultural appropriation may lead to the cheapening of traditions, reducing their richness and context.
  • Entertainment often faces cheapening, where sequels or remakes might undermine the original's value.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that perceived cheapening in relationships can diminish their emotional value.
  • Cheapening can affect self-esteem; when personal traits are undervalued, it impacts mental well-being.
  • The 'sunk cost fallacy' shows how people may continue investments in 'cheapened' projects due to previous commitment.

Literature

  • In literature, the theme of cheapening often symbolizes loss of innocence or moral degradation.
  • Books like 'Brave New World' explore the cheapening of human experiences in a consumer-driven society.
  • Poets sometimes lament the cheapening of love or beauty, reflecting societal changes in value perception.

Origin of 'cheapening'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cheapening' comes from the Old English 'ceap', which means 'bargain' or 'trade'.
  • Originally, 'cheap' implied a good deal, but over time it shifted to suggest reduced value.
  • 'Cheapening' combines 'cheap' with the suffix '-ing', indicating an ongoing process of decreasing worth.

The term 'cheapening' stems from the adjective 'cheap', which originates from the Old English word 'ceap', meaning 'a bargain or purchase'. This word is connected to the Proto-Germanic root '*kaupล', which signifies commerce or trading. Over time, 'cheap' evolved to describe something that is low in cost or of inferior quality. As the English language developed, the addition of the '-ening' suffix formed a verb, indicating the process or action of making something cheap. This transformation reflects cultural and economic changes, where mass production and consumerism have influenced perceptions of value and quality.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,197, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.