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

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regressive tax

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

Pedersen has suggested instituting a capital-gains tax to replace the regressive tax on drinking water.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 18, 2023

Corruption “serves as a regressive tax, it’s like Robin Hood in reverse,” Persson told me.

From New York Times ● May 11, 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