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two-speed

British  

adjective

  1. (of a transmission system) having two settings

  2. (of an economic system) allowing one sector to grow at a faster rate than another

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Those with higher incomes have continued to spend, buoyed by soaring financial markets that have boosted their sense of security, a reflection of the nation’s two-speed economy.

From The Wall Street Journal

Our guest this week was born of sturdy peasant stock, with a heavy-duty frame, four-wheel driveline, two-speed transfer case, 10-speed automatic, all-terrain tires and a big ole V8 engine.

From The Wall Street Journal

Some economists say China’s economy is exhibiting two-speed or K-shaped growth.

From The Wall Street Journal

Economists refer to the divide among consumers as the “K-shaped,” “two-speed” or “bifurcated” economy.

From MarketWatch

“We really are in a two-speed economy,” meaning lower-income people are struggling to pay for essentials such as food and housing while higher-income people are doing OK, Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack said recently.

From MarketWatch