Word
regressive
Phoneticsre·gres·sive, stress on the second syllable
US/ɹəˈɡɹɛsɪv/
UK/ɹɪɡɹˈɛsɪv/
Definition
adj. moving back to an earlier, less developed, or worse state. You use this to describe things that go against progress or modern ideas.
adj. moving or tending to move back toward a previous, less developed, or more primitive state. Often used to describe social, political, or economic policies that reverse established trends.
Examples
“The new tax policy is regressive and unfair.”
“Many critics argued that the proposed law was regressive, as it would increase the burden on the poorest members of society.”
“The shift toward a regressive tax system has sparked significant debate among economists, who warn that it may stifle long-term growth by discouraging investment in high-skilled labor.”
Examples
simple
“The new tax policy is regressive and unfair.”
contextual
“Many critics argued that the proposed law was regressive, as it would increase the burden on the poorest members of society.”
complex
“The shift toward a regressive tax system has sparked significant debate among economists, who warn that it may stifle long-term growth by discouraging investment in high-skilled labor.”
Real-World Examples
“According to the authors, the findings show how climate change is likely to be a regressive force, deepening the divide between the resilient wealthy and the vulnerable poor.” “The high cost of weight-loss medication is a “regressive tax on being thin” because the outlay outweighs any saving on food costs for all but the highest earners.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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