devaluation

Language: en

🇺🇸 /dɪˌvæljuːˈeɪʃən/

📖 Definitions

  1. noun
    The reduction or lowering of the official value of a currency in relation to other currencies or a standard such as gold.; The act of reducing the worth, importance, or value of something.; A decrease in the market value or perceived value of an asset, property, or commodity.; In psychology, a defense mechanism in which a person attributes negative qualities to oneself or others, reducing their perceived value.; The process by which a qualification, degree, or credential loses its perceived worth due to over-supply or declining standards.

🔗 Details

Word forms

countable Plural: devaluations

Collocations

currency devaluationcompetitive devaluationdevaluation of the currencydevaluation of the dollardevaluation of the pound

Derivatives

devaluedevaluedrevaluationrevalue

Synonyms

depreciationdebasementdowngradingreductionmarkdown

Antonyms

revaluationappreciationrevaluation

Commonly confused

depreciation
EN: 'Depreciation' refers to a general or gradual loss of value (often market-driven), while 'devaluation' specifically refers to a deliberate official reduction in a currency's value by a government or authority.
devolution
EN: 'Devolution' means the transfer of power or authority to a lower level (e.g., political devolution); 'devaluation' means a reduction in monetary value.
debasement
EN: 'Debasement' refers to reducing the quality or purity of something (especially coinage), while 'devaluation' refers to reducing the official exchange rate or stated value.

Spelling tips

EN: Derived from 'devalue' + '-ation'. Do not confuse with 'devolution' (transfer of power), which has a similar spelling pattern but entirely different meaning.

💬 Examples

  1. The government announced a devaluation of the national currency to boost exports.

  2. The devaluation of traditional crafts has led to a loss of cultural heritage.

  3. The devaluation of the company's stock was caused by the scandal.

  4. The patient exhibited devaluation as a defense mechanism, constantly belittling his own achievements.

  5. The rapid increase in university graduates has led to the devaluation of bachelor's degrees in the job market.