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.)

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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

All four candidates said they would call for increased investment in public education and housing affordability, and say rebalancing a regressive tax code is part of the answer.

From Seattle Times ● Jul. 16, 2022

It’s still in place, despite a concerted effort by the American Beverage Association to highlight what it calls an unfair, regressive tax that harms local store owners.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 10, 2017

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