trickle-down

Pronunciation

Adjective B1 Intermediate

Describing the idea that benefits given to wealthy people or large businesses will eventually spread down to everyone else.

"Critics argue that trickle-down policies rarely help the workers they claim to benefit."

Usage notes

Almost always used in discussions of economic policy, especially in the phrase "trickle-down economics."

Which word fits the gap? "Critics argue that _____ policies rarely help the workers they claim to benefit."

Answer: trickle-down

In your own words, what does "trickle-down" mean?

Describing the idea that benefits given to wealthy people or large businesses will eventually spread down to everyone else.