Meaning & Definition of word "Subsidy"

to

arrow

    Subsidy

    /ˈsʌb.sɪ.di/

    noun:

    • 1. A financial aid supplied by a government or another organization to support or promote a specific economic activity or sector.
      • Example: The government provided a subsidy to farmers to help them cope with the rising costs of materials.
    • 2. A sum of money granted by an authority to assist an industry or business so that the price of a commodity or service may remain low or competitive.
      • Example: The transportation subsidy made it possible for low-income families to travel affordably.
    • 3. Support or assistance in the form of money that helps reduce the financial burden of certain services.
      • Example: Many students benefit from a subsidy that covers part of their tuition fees.
    • 4. Government assistance to businesses or services in order to maintain fairness in trade practices or to support economic growth.
      • Example: The renewable energy subsidy encouraged more companies to invest in solar and wind power technologies.

    Etymology

    Latin 'subsidium', meaning 'support, aid, or assistance'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    agricultural subsidy:

    Financial aid specifically for farmers or agricultural production.

    energy subsidy:

    Monetary assistance aimed at reducing the costs of energy production or consumption.

    housing subsidy:

    Financial assistance provided to help reduce the cost of housing for low-income individuals or families.

    Related Words

    grant:

    A sum of money given by an organization for a particular purpose.

    assistance:

    The action of helping someone or providing support.

    financial aid:

    Monetary assistance given to individuals or institutions.

    Slang Meanings of subsidy

    Meaning: A government handout

    Example Sentence: Some people are critical of subsidies, calling them government handouts.

    Meaning: Free money from the government

    Example Sentence: Getting a subsidy feels like receiving free money from the government for many.