# economic growth

CEFR B1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/economic-growth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

an increase in the amount of goods and services a country produces over time.

For teachers: an increase in the capacity of an economy to produce goods and services, compared from one period of time to another; typically measured by GDP.

## Examples

- The country is enjoying steady economic growth this year.
- Low interest rates are often used by governments to encourage investment and stimulate economic growth.
- Sustainable economic growth remains a primary objective for developing nations seeking to improve living standards without depleting natural resources.

## Pitfalls

- Not "economical growth" but "economic growth" — 'economical' means avoiding waste or being cheap, whereas 'economic' relates to the system of trade and industry.

## Usage notes

- usually uncountable; often paired with adjectives like 'rapid', 'steady', 'slow', or 'sustainable'.
- Teaching tip: distinguish between 'economic' (related to the economy) and 'economical' (saving money/cheap), as students frequently confuse these two adjectives in this compound.

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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.