List of Idioms and Phrases from The HINDU editorial: “Demand flux: On growth dynamics”

List of Idioms and Phrases from The HINDU editorial: “Demand flux: On growth dynamics”

The economy is showing signs of a K-shaped consumption pattern, where certain sectors are thriving while others are struggling. The government has implemented measures to shore up demand, especially in rural areas, in hopes of stimulating broader economic recovery. Ideally, this will create a virtuous cycle of increased investment, job creation, and consumption growth.

However, recent data points to a potential turn in the tide, with urban consumer confidence waning. Policymakers are hoping for a course reversal during the festive season to counteract the slowdown. Still, urban spending has been crimped by high food inflation, limiting consumers' purchasing power. There are calls for the government to pass through global price reductions in oil to consumers to ease inflationary pressures. Yet, recent cuts in fuel prices have been criticized as token relief, offering little significant benefit to the average consumer.

1.  K-shaped consumption pattern

• Meaning: A type of economic recovery or growth where different parts of the economy recover at different rates, with some sectors or groups prospering while others continue to struggle.
• Example: "The K-shaped consumption pattern is evident as luxury goods see increased sales, while essential commodities face slower demand."

2.  Shore up

• Meaning: To support or strengthen something that is weak or needs help.
• Example: "The government introduced new policies to shore up rural demand and encourage economic growth."

3.  Virtuous cycle

• Meaning: A positive cycle where one good thing leads to another, creating a reinforcing loop of benefits.
• Example: "Increased investment leads to more jobs, which in turn boosts consumption, creating a virtuous cycle for the economy."

4.  Turn in the tide

• Meaning: A change in a situation, usually for the better, but in this context, indicating a potential negative shift.
• Example: "The RBI’s report shows a turn in the tide, with urban consumer confidence beginning to decline."

5.  Course reversal

• Meaning: A change in direction or approach, often in response to changing circumstances.
• Example: "The Finance Ministry hopes that the festive season will lead to a course reversal in slowing urban demand."

6.  Crimped by

• Meaning: Limited or constrained by something.
• Example: "Urban consumers' spending capacity has been crimped by persistently high food inflation."

7.  Passing through

• Meaning: Allowing changes in cost, such as reduced costs, to be reflected in the final price paid by consumers.
• Example: "The government should consider passing through the reduced global oil prices to benefit consumers."

8.  Token relief

• Meaning: A small or symbolic effort that is not significant enough to solve a problem.
• Example: "The two-rupee fuel price cut was seen as a token relief, insufficient to significantly impact household budgets."