austerity

noun
UK: /ɔːˈster.ə.ti/
US: /ɑːˈster.ə.t̬i/

  1. A situation when a government spends less money.

    1. The government imposed austerity measures to reduce the deficit. [ ] [ ]
    2. Many public services faced cuts because of the period of austerity after the recession. [ ] [ ]

  2. Difficult economic conditions created by government's actions to reduce public spending.

    1. The period of austerity led to job losses and business closures. [ ] [ ]
    2. Austerity measures were implemented in response to the financial crisis, impacting social programs. [ ] [ ]

  3. A way of living that is simple and without luxury.

    1. The monks lived in austerity, with few possessions. [ ] [ ]
    2. She chose a life of austerity, dedicating herself to helping others in need. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

severity stringency simplicity frugality
austerity adjective

  1. Relating to policies of strict financial control and reduced spending.

    1. The austerity plan was unpopular with many voters. [ ] [ ]
    2. Austerity budgets often lead to protests against cuts in public services. [ ] [ ]

  2. Describing a simple and unadorned style or appearance.

    1. The room had an austerity that reflected his personality. [ ] [ ]
    2. The building's austerity was a deliberate choice, conveying a sense of seriousness. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "austerity" in English means: A situation when a government spends less money., Difficult economic conditions created by government's actions to reduce public spending., A way of living that is simple and without luxury..

The phonetic transcription of "austerity" is /ɔːˈster.ə.ti/ in British English and /ɑːˈster.ə.t̬i/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "austerity": severity, stringency, simplicity, frugality.

Example usage of "austerity": "The government imposed austerity measures to reduce the deficit.". More examples on the page.