stagnation
stag-NAY-shun
/stæɡˈneɪ.ʃən/
The state of not flowing or moving; lack of activity, growth, or development.
Often used for economies or careers that have stopped progressing.
The story behind the word. It comes from 'stagnum,' which is a pond or pool of water that doesn't flow. Just as a pool of water becomes smelly and unhealthy if it doesn't move, so does an economy or a mind.
Word relationships
- standstill: Standstill is a complete stop; stagnation is a lack of growth or fresh movement.
- growth: The process of increasing in size or importance.
Commonly confused with
- stability: Stability is positive (not falling); stagnation is negative (not growing).
Word family
- stagnate (verb): To stop developing or making progress.
- stagnant (adjective): Showing no activity; dull and sluggish.
Collocations
- economic stagnation
- cultural stagnation
- period of stagnation
Idioms & expressions
- stuck in a rut
- dead in the water
Example sentences
- "The country is facing a period of economic stagnation with high unemployment." Economics
- "He felt a sense of stagnation in his job and decided it was time for a change." Personal growth
Memory hook
Stagnation is like a 'Stag-Nation'—a nation of deer just standing still in the woods. Standing water.
When not to use
Don't use for a temporary pause; it implies a long-term, unhealthy lack of movement.
Fun facts
- The term 'stagflation' was coined in the 1970s to describe a mix of stagnation and inflation.
Related words
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