WordValebear market
a period of falling prices and pessimism
In more detail
a period of time when prices of stocks fall and most investors lose money
Examples
- The bear market of 2008 caused many people to lose their savings.
How to use bear market
Bear market is a technical financial term describing an extended period (typically defined as a 20% or more decline) when stock prices fall consistently and investor sentiment turns negative. It contrasts with bull market and is used in financial news, investment discussions, and economic analysis to characterize broader market trends rather than short-term fluctuations.
Common phrases
- enter a bear market
- during the bear market
- bear market conditions
- prolonged bear market
- amid the bear market
Synonyms
downturn · market decline · slump · correction · recession
Opposites
bull market · upturn
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'bear market' for any brief price drop or a single bad day of trading, when it actually refers to a sustained, significant decline over months or longer.
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