unearned increment

American  

noun

1. the increase in the value of property, especially land, due to natural causes, as growth of population, rather than to any labor or expenditure by the owner.

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unearned increment British  

noun

1. a rise in the market value of landed property resulting from general economic factors

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Etymology

Origin of unearned increment

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

Taxes would go to the Chinese state, the land rent system would be corrected, and unearned increment would be confiscated under a somewhat novel tax scheme proposed by Sun Yat-sen.

From Project Gutenberg

An 'unearned increment,' such as would satisfy the most glowing dreams of the most ardent speculator, has occurred in the capital.

From Project Gutenberg

Her income and creditor classes are daily in receipt of an unearned increment to their wealth by reason of that demonetization.

From Project Gutenberg

In the general scramble for "unearned increments," property holders who are exempt from the payment of taxes are given an overwhelming advantage.

From Project Gutenberg

No more exciting corners or supposititious heaping up of unearned increments for me.

From Project Gutenberg