消费 — meaning in English: consumption

xiāofèi · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for spending

大鼠

dà shǔ

消费

xiāofèi

剧情

jùqíng

统治

tǒngzhì

入侵

rùqīn

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use '消费' (xiāofèi) in various contexts, especially when discussing shopping, spending habits, or economic activities. For example, you might hear it in conversations about consumer behavior in markets or during discussions about government policies aimed at boosting domestic consumption.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is '支出' (zhīchū), meaning 'expenditure.' While '消费' focuses more on the act of consuming goods or services, '支出' emphasizes the financial aspect of spending. Use '消费' when discussing consumer behavior and trends, while '支出' fits better in financial contexts.

Culture

'消费' (xiāofèi) has its roots in the Chinese economic reforms of the late 20th century, which shifted the focus from production to consumption. This word not only highlights individual spending but also serves as a barometer for the overall health of the economy, reflecting how consumer habits can drive growth in a rapidly changing society.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of 消费 in English?

'消费' (xiāofèi) translates to 'consumption' in English, referring to the act of using goods and services.

Q.How do you use 消费 in a sentence?

'消费' can be used in sentences like '我们需要增加消费' (Wǒmen xūyào zēngjiā xiāofèi), meaning 'We need to increase consumption.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 消费?

A common mistake is confusing '消费' with '购物' (gòuwù), which means 'shopping.' Remember, '消费' refers to the broader act of consumption, while '购物' focuses specifically on the act of purchasing.

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