Definition

1. Noun:
   • Consumer goods that are not destroyed by use: "Durable goods" are tangible products that are not consumed or worn out in a single use and are expected to last for an extended period, typically several years.

Usage

• The term "durable goods" is used primarily in economics, business, and manufacturing contexts to categorize products based on their longevity.
• It is often contrasted with "non-durable goods" or "consumables," which are used up quickly.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Refrigerators, washing machines, and cars are all examples of durable goods.
  • The government's report showed a rise in orders for durable goods, indicating increased consumer confidence.
  • Furniture is considered a durable good because it can be used for many years.

Advanced Usage

• "Durable goods orders": An economic indicator that tracks new orders placed with manufacturers for delivery of long-lasting manufactured goods.
  • Analysts watch the monthly durable goods orders report closely for signs of economic health.

Variants and Related Words

• Durables (n, informal): A shortened, informal form of "durable goods."
  • The sales figures for durables were strong this quarter.
• Consumer durables (n): A synonym often used interchangeably with "durable goods," emphasizing the consumer aspect.
  • The market for consumer durables is highly competitive.

Synonyms

• Hard goods: An informal synonym for durable goods.
• Long-lasting goods: A descriptive phrase emphasizing the key characteristic.

Related Phrases

• Big-ticket items: Often refers to expensive durable goods.
  • Buying a house or a car are major purchases of big-ticket items.
• Capital goods: While related, these are goods used to other goods and services (e.g., machinery), not for final consumption. They are durable but for a different economic purpose.

Noun

1. consumer goods that are not destroyed by use