WordValeinflation
a general rise in prices over time
In more detail
1. (noun) a general increase in the prices of goods and services, so that money becomes worth less
2. (noun) the act of filling something with air or gas
Examples
- 1. High inflation means your money can buy less than before.
- 2. The inflation of the balloon took only a few minutes.
How to use inflation
In economics, inflation refers to sustained increases in the general price level of goods and services over time, making money worth less. The term is commonly used in financial discussions, news reports, and policy debates. In everyday contexts, it can also simply mean filling something with air, though this usage is less frequent in contemporary English.
Common phrases
- high inflation
- rising inflation
- control inflation
- combat inflation
- inflation rate
- inflation pressure
Synonyms
price increase · rise in prices · currency devaluation · deflation of purchasing power
Opposites
deflation · disinflation
Word family
inflate (verb) · inflatable (adjective) · inflationary (adjective) · inflationist (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse inflation (prices rising, money worth less) with deflation (prices falling) or use the term loosely to mean any price increase rather than a general, sustained rise affecting the whole economy.
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