What is inflation? Learn About Inflation, Its Terms, and How to Fight Against It

What is inflation in economics? A lot is going on around the globe, to be sure. In certain respects, we haven't got any breaks from thinking about things. And when we thought things were starting to calm down, along comes inflation.

If you were to summarize the US economy in one word right now, it would be inflation. What was once a terrible chapter in high school economics is today the hottest topic around the water cooler. What is the definition of inflation? Here's where you'll get the answer.

What exactly is inflation?

What is inflation

Inflation is a situation when the price of goods and services is increasing. It's based on how much prices rise over time and how the value of money decreases as a result of those price increases.

It's hardly the best dinner party conversation starter. However, inflation is not a new phenomenon. It's not some obscure financial word that didn't appear until 2022. Inflation has always existed.

Other Inflation Terms in Economics

Deflation

If you Google "what is inflation," this one will almost certainly come up next, so let's tackle that as well. Deflation occurs when the price of goods and services falls over time and the rate of inflation falls below 0%. Simply said, deflation simply means that you can get more bang for your buck (or purchasing power), whether you go shopping or shop online.

Even though deflation allows your money to go further, it is not a positive thing in this case. See, deflation brings with it a slew of other issues, including no economic growth, stagnant income, and a large number of job losses. However, we are more concerned about inflation than deflation these days.

Stagflation

Stagflation occurs when economic growth slows (or comes to a complete halt), unemployment is high, and the cost of goods and services continues to rise. Oh, and it all occurs at the same moment.

Stagflation last rocked the United States in the 1970s, but some analysts fear it will happen again if things don't improve soon.

Hyperinflation

Hyperinflation is inflation on steroids, as the name implies. Hyperinflation occurs when the price of products increases rapidly and is out of control.

Most economists agree that hyperinflation is defined as monthly price increases of 50% or more. A gallon of milk, for example, went from $3.50 in May to $5.25 in June to $7.88 in July. Sheesh.

Yes, that seems absurd, as if it could never happen, yet it did happen in Germany following World War I. Still, hyperinflation is a rare occurrence.

And, since you're probably just curious, what exactly is inflation? Let's return to the topic of regular inflation, which is currently occurring.

Inflation's Impact on You and the Economy

What exactly is inflation, if you're still wondering? Remember that most inflation stems from the basic supply and demand problem (as many of us are these days).

When people can't find what they need or desire, the price rises and a scarcity mindset develops (where you believe there won't be enough of something left for you to have any). If you can supply enough stuff to the market, demand will fall and prices will fall.

Oversupply = lower prices. Undersupply = higher prices.

When inflation occurs, the repercussions are felt quickly in stores—and your wallet.

Meat and seafood prices have increased by 79%, dairy prices have increased by 76%, and fresh vegetable prices have increased by 71%.7 as prices rise, the dreaded term "inflation" begins to affect you.

Regular things that you used to be able to purchase for a reasonable price have suddenly increased in price. I don't recall cheese being so expensive! Yes, you're not making it all up.

How Can You Protect Yourself From Inflation?

If you're thinking to yourself that you will be able to avoid inflation, you better reconsider. What can you do to protect yourself from the effects of inflation? Plenty.

Keep your cool.

When people talk about inflation, it seems like everyone wants to fill up every container they own with fuel, start accumulating gold, panic, purchase baking yeast, and bury their money beneath their mattress. Oh my goodness, pal.

Slow down, take a deep breath, and relax. You do not need to be concerned as you prepare. And the first step is to maintain your composure.

Spending plan

You still have power over your money, inflation or not. With some tips budgeting your money from this site, you'll be able to ensure that your money is going to the appropriate places while also identifying areas where you may save money.

On the less enjoyable side of things, if you see that prices for goods like food and petrol are rising in your area, you'll need to adapt your budget as well.

Did the price of a gallon of milk increase from $3.50 to $3.99? I've been there before.) You'll know exactly how much money you're working with and won't be caught off guard.

Allow your budget to guide you while you hunt for ways to save money so you can pay for that ridiculously expensive milk. Maybe you don't have to pay for your child's ballet class for the next few months because you're not traveling right now.

Keep.

If you're in a tight spot and want to save even more money, search for ways to cut your grocery bill or save money on gas right now. Perhaps it's time to make the move to generic brands or carpool to work.

And if you find good bargains on canned food and other items that you can stock your pantry with (and will use), stock up. Just make sure you've set aside money for it before you go shopping.

That way, you'll know exactly how much you'll spend and won't be tempted by impulse purchases (toilet paper in the year 2020, anyone?).

Invest money.

Whether you like it or not, inflation is a reality. If you retire in 20 or 30 years, the cost of a loaf of bread, a tank of gas, and a cup of coffee will almost certainly have increased.

The greatest method to protect yourself from inflation (which is unavoidable) is to invest your money as soon as possible.

However, if you still have debt (other than your home) and you don't have an emergency fund, you must address both of these issues first. The sooner you take care of all of that, the sooner you can start investing and working for your long-term objectives.

What is inflation? Well, you can certainly combat it—all you need are the correct tools. Are you prepared to fight inflation? Start with a good investment strategy.

You can consult with your financial advisor to manage your money in the right way so that you can be free from any serious financial problems in the future.