regressive tax

Cultural  

1. A tax that takes a higher percentage of low incomes than high ones. Sales taxes, especially on food, clothing, medicine, and other basic necessities are widely cited as examples of regressive taxes. (Compare progressive tax.)

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

regressive tax

One could argue that the burden should be shared more broadly than through a regressive tax on today’s workers.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 30, 2026

It is the most regressive tax, Swonk says.

From Barron's ● Jun. 10, 2026

As far as economics is concerned, he has made cutting inflation, which stands at 287% annually, his clear priority, arguing that "the most regressive tax that most afflicts people is inflation".

From BBC ● May 6, 2024

It’s also our most regressive tax, meaning it burdens lower-income Californians the most — costing the lowest-earning 20%, with household incomes of $25,200 or less, an average 7.6% of family income.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 14, 2024

Cutting a regressive tax is one issue on which hopefully lawmakers of both parties, and maybe the governor himself, will agree.

From Seattle Times ● Jan. 7, 2022