Regressive: meaning, definitions and examples

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regressive

[rɪˈɡrɛsɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

psychology

Relating to or marked by a return to a past condition, behavior, or belief.

Synonyms

backsliding, retrogressive, reverting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
regressive	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.
retrogressive	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.
reverting	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.
backsliding	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.

Examples of usage

Her regressive behavior was a result of stress at work.
The patient's regressive state was a concern for the therapist.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

politics

Opposing progress or reform; advocating for a return to a previous state.

Synonyms

conservative, reactionary, traditionalist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
regressive	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.
reactionary	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.
conservative	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.
traditionalist	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.

Examples of usage

The regressive policies of the government were met with strong opposition.
He was known for his regressive views on social issues.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

economics

Describing a tax or system that takes a proportionally greater amount from low-income earners than from high-income earners.

Synonyms

biased, inequitable, unfair.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
regressive	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
inequitable	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	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
biased	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

Examples of usage

The regressive tax system was criticized for its impact on the working class.
Implementing regressive policies would exacerbate income inequality.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'regressus', meaning 'to go back'.
It first appeared in English in the late 15th century.
The prefix 're-' in 'regressive' means 'back' or 'again', while 'gress' comes from a root meaning 'to step'.

Psychology

In psychology, regressive behavior can occur during stress, typically seen as a temporary return to behaviors of a younger age.
Children may exhibit regressive behaviors, like thumb sucking, when faced with major changes such as moving to a new home.
Therapists sometimes use regression as a technique to help clients access forgotten memories or emotions.

Economics

Regressive taxation refers to a system where lower-income earners pay a higher percentage of their income in tax compared to wealthier individuals.
Such tax systems have been criticized for increasing inequality by placing a heavier burden on those who can least afford it.
Proponents argue that they can simplify tax codes and encourage spending, though the social implications are heavily debated.

Politics

Regressive policies are those that support the rollback of progressive reforms, often favoring traditional structures over modern advancements.
In discussions about social issues, a regressive stance may imply a desire to revert to past societal norms perceived as more conservative.
Notable historical movements have been labeled as regressive when they oppose advancements in civil rights and social justice.

Technology

In technology, regressive development can refer to software that returns to previous versions, often due to bugs or performance issues.
The concept also applies when users become reliant on outdated technology that limits interaction with more advanced systems.
Companies sometimes experience regressive trends in innovation when they focus on short-term gains at the expense of long-term improvements.

Translations

Translations of the word "regressive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 regressivo

🇮🇳 प्रतिगामी

🇩🇪 regressiv

🇮🇩 regresif

🇺🇦 регресивний

🇵🇱 regresywny

🇯🇵 退行性

🇫🇷 régressif

🇪🇸 regresivo

🇹🇷 gerileyici

🇰🇷 퇴행성

🇸🇦 تراجعي

🇨🇿 regresivní

🇸🇰 regresívny

🇨🇳 倒退的

🇸🇮 regresiven

🇮🇸 afturfarandi

🇰🇿 регрессивті

🇬🇪 რეგრესული

🇦🇿 regressiv

🇲🇽 regresivo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,148, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18145 percolation
18146 galena
18147 clemency
18148 regressive
18149 rumble
18150 utilise
18151 unconsciousness
...