Recovery
ri-KUV-uh-ree
/rɪˈkʌvəri/
A period of renewed economic growth and activity following a recession or downturn.
Economic recovery is the phase where the economy starts to rebound from a low point (trough) towards expansion. It can be slow ('L-shaped') or rapid ('V-shaped').
The story behind the word. The word 'recovery' comes from the Old French 'recovrer,' which itself derives from Latin 'recuperare,' meaning 'to get back, regain.' It combines 're-' (again) and 'capere' (to take). In English, it has been used since the 14th century for regaining health or possessions. Its economic sense, referring to the regaining of economic health after a downturn, became common in the 20th century.
Word relationships
- rebound: A quick return to a previous good level or state.
- revival: An improvement in the condition or strength of something.
- recession: A period of economic decline.
- slump: A prolonged period of economic decline.
Word family
- recover (verb): to return to a normal state of health, mind, or strength; to regain or make up for
Collocations
- economic recovery
- slow recovery
- strong recovery
- post-recession recovery
- path to recovery
Example sentences
- "After years of hardship, the country finally began a slow but steady economic recovery, marked by job creation and increased consumer confidence." Discussing post-crisis periods.
- "Analysts are closely watching for signs of a robust recovery in the manufacturing sector." An analyst's prediction.
Memory hook
Think of the economy 're-covering' or getting back on its feet after being sick. Economy Gets Better
When not to use
Do not use 'recovery' to describe a personal recovery from illness or a lost item; it refers specifically to economic or financial rebound.
Fun facts
- The shape of an economic recovery (V-shaped, U-shaped, W-shaped, L-shaped, K-shaped) describes the pattern of GDP growth after a recession.
- Government stimulus packages are often aimed at accelerating economic recovery.
Related words
Explore more words
revitalization, resilience, revitalize, recuperate, resilient
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