Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act of using up a resource: The process of taking in or using something, especially goods, energy, or food.
   • The amount used or eaten: The quantity of a substance, product, or service that is used by a person or group.
   • (Medical, dated) Tuberculosis: A disease characterized by the wasting away of the body, especially pulmonary tuberculosis.

Examples of Usage

• General Act of Using:
  • The new policy aims to reduce fuel consumption.
  • We need to be mindful of our water consumption during the drought.
• Economic Context:
  • Household consumption is a key driver of economic growth.
  • The report analyzes patterns of meat consumption in the region.
• Medical Context (dated):
  • In the 19th century, consumption was a leading cause of death.

Advanced Usage

• Consumption function: (Economics) A mathematical formula expressing the relationship between total consumption and total income.
  • The economist studied the national consumption function.
• Consumption good: (Economics) A product that is used by a consumer and is not used to produce other goods.
  • Food and clothing are typical consumption goods.

Variants and Related Words

• Consume (verb): To use up a resource; to eat or drink.
  • The engine consumes a lot of oil.
• Consumer (noun): A person who purchases goods and services for personal use.
  • Consumer confidence affects spending.
• Consumptive (adjective, dated): Relating to or suffering from tuberculosis.
  • (Historical) He was sent to a sanatorium due to his consumptive condition.

Synonyms

• Use: The act of employing something for a purpose.
• Utilization: The action of making practical and effective use of something.
• Expenditure: The action of spending funds or using resources.

Related Phrases

• Consumption tax: A tax on the purchase of goods and services.
  • The government is debating an increase in the consumption tax.
• Sustainable consumption: The use of services and products in a way that minimizes impact on the environment.
  • Promoting sustainable consumption is crucial for the planet.

Noun

1. the act of consuming something
2. (economics) the utilization of economic goods to satisfy needs or in manufacturing
   • the consumption of energy has increased steadily
3. involving the lungs with progressive wasting of the body
4. the process of taking food into the body through the mouth (as by eating)