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stagnation
/staɡ.na.sjɔ̃/
stagnation
La stagnation économique est une période de faible croissance.
Economic stagnation is a period of low growth.
formal
A state of inactivity or lack of progress in a process, system, or economy.
La stagnation des ventes a inquiété les investisseurs.
The stagnation of sales worried investors.
Après des années de stagnation, le marché immobilier a enfin repris.
After years of stagnation, the real estate market finally recovered.
Often used in economic, social, or environmental contexts to describe a lack of development or movement.
Collocations
stagnation économiqueeconomic stagnationstagnation des prixprice stagnationpériode de stagnationperiod of stagnation
Synonyms
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'stagnation' vs. 'stagnation' in English
In English, 'stagnation' is often used in economic contexts (e.g., 'economic stagnation'), while in French, it can apply to broader contexts like 'stagnation des idées' (stagnation of ideas).
Gold Rule
Use 'stagnation' for lack of progress, not for physical inactivity
Avoid using 'stagnation' to describe objects or systems that are physically inactive (e.g., 'a stagnant pool of water'). Use 'stagnant' as an adjective instead.
Word Origin
From Latin *stagnatio*, from *stagnare* (to stagnate), derived from *stagnum* (pool, swamp). The term entered French in the 14th century, initially in a literal sense (water not flowing), later extended metaphorically to abstract stagnation.
Usage Notes
In French, 'stagnation' is a neutral term used across various fields (economics, biology, sociology). It implies a negative connotation when referring to progress or growth.
Word Breakdown
stagn-
from Latin *stagnare* (to stagnate)
root-ation
action or process
suffixDictionnaire Français-Anglais