# acatallactic

CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/acatallactic
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

describing a situation where the supply of a good or service is not enough to meet the demand. It is a technical word used in economics to talk about markets that are not in balance.

For teachers: relating to a state of disequilibrium in a market where the quantity supplied does not equal the quantity demanded. Often used in the context of price controls or external shocks that prevent the market from self-correcting.

## Examples

- The government's price ceiling caused an acatallactic situation.
- When a sudden natural disaster disrupts the supply chain, the resulting shortage can lead to an acatallactic market for essential goods.
- Economists argue that an acatallactic state is inherently unstable, as the persistent gap between supply and demand eventually forces either a price adjustment or a significant shift in consumer behavior.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.