Consumption

Definition

Consumption refers to the act of using, eating, or absorbing resources, goods, or services. It is commonly used in economics to describe the expenditure or use of goods and services by individuals, households, or societies. The term can also apply to the absorption of ideas, energy, or resources.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈsʌmpʃən/
• Respelling: kuhn-SUHMP-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈsʌmpʃən/
• Respelling: kuhn-SUHMP-shuhn

The pronunciation of "consumption" is consistent in both American and British English, with only minor differences in accent.

Etymology

The word "consumption" originates from the Latin word "consumptio," meaning "a using up, wasting." It is derived from the verb "consumere," which means "to use up or spend." The term entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially referring to the act of consuming food and later broadening to cover various types of usage or absorption, including energy and resources.

Derivatives

• Consume (verb)
• Consumer (noun)
• Consumable (adjective)
• Consumptionism (noun)
• Overconsumption (noun)

Synonyms

• Use
• Expenditure
• Utilization

Antonyms

• Conservation
• Savings
• Accumulation

Usage

The word "consumption" is often used in economic and environmental contexts to describe the use of resources. For example, "The rising consumption of energy is a major concern for sustainability," or "Household consumption of goods has increased significantly in the last decade." It can also refer to the intake of food, ideas, or information, such as "The consumption of unhealthy foods leads to long-term health problems."

Related Terms

• Consumer: A person who purchases goods or services for personal use.
• Demand: The desire and ability to purchase goods and services.
• Economy: The wealth and resources of a country or region, especially in terms of production and consumption.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The use of goods and services by consumers: Refers to the process in which consumers utilize products or services for personal needs or economic activities.
  • Example: "The consumption of electronic devices has increased due to the demand for technology."
• The act of eating, drinking, or absorbing substances: Refers to the physical intake or absorption of food, drink, or energy.
  • Example: "The consumption of alcohol is prohibited in certain areas."
• The waste or depletion of resources: Refers to the depletion or exhaustion of natural resources or materials.
  • Example: "The excessive consumption of fossil fuels has environmental consequences."