Contracyclical

/ˌkɒntrəˈsɪklɪkəl/ adjective

Definition

Moving or acting in the opposite direction to economic cycles, especially when used to stabilize an economy during recessions or booms.

Etymology

Compound of 'contra-' (against, opposite) and 'cyclical' (moving in cycles). Used primarily in economics since the mid-20th century to describe policy designed to counteract normal economic swings.

Kelly Says

When the economy is in recession, governments spend money and lower interest rates—these are 'contracyclical' policies designed to pump life back into the economy by doing the opposite of what's naturally happening.

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