Meaning & Definition of word "Subsidy"

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.