Regressive: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or academic contexts to describe a return to a less advanced state, often in a negative sense. Commonly applied in discussions about taxes, policies, or behaviors that move backward in terms of progress.

• The new tax plan is seen as regressive, benefiting the wealthier citizens more than the poor.
• Some argue that the recent educational reforms are regressive and undermine decades of progress.

Formal and often used in academic or scientific contexts to describe a movement backward to a less advanced state. It is similar to 'regressive' but emphasizes a decline or deterioration.

• The policy changes are seen as retrogressive, halting advancements made over the years.
• His retrogressive attitude towards technology hinders the company's growth.

Used in both formal and informal settings to describe returning to a previous state or condition, which can be either good or bad depending on the context.

• She started reverting to her old ways after the breakup.
• The software update failed, and the system kept reverting to its previous version.

Used to describe a return to bad habits or a worsening condition. Often used in personal or moral contexts, and carries a negative connotation.

• Despite his best efforts, he found himself backsliding into old habits.
• The company's recent ethical scandals highlight a worrying trend of backsliding from its core values.

Best used to describe policies or actions that go backwards in terms of progress or development.

• The new tax law is considered regressive because it places a greater burden on lower-income families.
• His regressive views on social issues are not welcome in our progressive community.

Used to describe someone or something that strongly opposes progress or radical change; often has a negative connotation.

• The reactionary policies of the new administration have unsettled many citizens.
• His reactionary comments during the meeting were not well received by the more progressive team members.

Ideal for describing someone who prefers traditional values and is resistant to change, especially in politics.

• She has a conservative approach to financial investments, avoiding high-risk options.
• His conservative stance on healthcare reform has sparked a lot of debates.

Refers to someone who deeply values and upholds traditional practices and beliefs.

• As a traditionalist, she insists on celebrating holidays in the same way her grandparents did.
• His traditionalist views on education favor classical methods over modern technology.

This word is often used in economic and social policies where it implies a return to a less developed state or reversing progress. It is commonly applied to tax systems that disproportionately affect lower-income individuals.

• A regressive tax policy places a heavier burden on the poor
• The new law is seen as regressive, undermining years of progress

The word inequitable is employed when referring to situations where resources, opportunities, or treatment are not distributed fairly. It is often used in the context of social justice and economic disparities.

• The funding for schools in different regions is highly inequitable
• Policies must change to address inequitable healthcare access

Unfair is a broad term commonly used in everyday language to describe actions, behaviors, or situations where equality or justice is compromised. It has a very general application.

• It's unfair that he got punished for something he didn't do
• The team lost because of an unfair decision by the referee

This term is used when there is an unfair preference for or prejudice against someone or something. It's common in discussions about media, data interpretation, or social issues.

• The news report was biased, showing only one side of the story
• Data can be biased if the sample isn't representative