postindustrial economy

Cultural  

1. A phrase that describes the shift of some major industrial economies in the late twentieth century away from producing goods and toward producing services.

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Example Sentences

Sociologists call it the postindustrial economy, which is a way of saying we don’t even know what it is; it’s the after-the-last-thing thing.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

We are in a postindustrial economy that will see a new manufacturing boom in the next 10 years.

From New York Times • Oct. 4, 2016

In today’s postindustrial economy, it is harder for less-educated Americans, especially poor and working-class men, to find stable, decent-paying jobs.

From Slate • Jul. 20, 2012

"Toughness and assertiveness are obsolete—that's absurd!" she declared, referring to the idea that male traits aren't as crucial to the postindustrial economy.

From Slate • Sep. 22, 2011

In today's postindustrial economy, the majority of positions require more education and skill than ever before.

From Time Magazine Archive