What is regressive? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of regressive

regressiveadjective

thoái lui

/rɪˈɡresɪv//rɪˈɡresɪv/

Where does the word regressive come from?

The word "regressive" originates from the Latin word "regressus," meaning "going back" or "returning." It's formed from the prefix "re-" (back) and the verb "gressus," meaning "to step" or "to go." Over time, "regressive" evolved to describe something moving backward or reverting to a previous, often less developed state. This is reflected in its use to describe actions, policies, or behaviors that move away from progress or improvement.

Vocabulary summary regressive

typeadjective

meaningretreat, retreat; go backwards, go back

typeDefault

meaningregression

Example of vocabulary regressivenamespace

meaning

becoming or making something less advanced

  • The policy has been condemned as a regressive step.
  • The policy proposals put forth by the conservative party were widely criticized as regressive, as they would disproportionately harm low-income households.
  • The rent hikes proposed by the landlord organization were regressive, as they would increase living costs for many low-income households without improving the quality of their housing.
  • The implementation of sales taxes on essential items like food and medicine is a regressive taxation policy, as it disproportionately affects low-income earners.
  • The decision to cut funding for public schools in favor of private school vouchers is a regressive educational policy, as it takes resources away from underfunded public schools and redirects them towards privileged private institutions.
meaning

having less effect on the rich than on the poor

  • A regressive tax structure is one in which the average tax rate falls as income level rises.

Comment ()