spillover

Definition

Noun: 1. An indirect or unintended consequence, effect, or result of an action, event, or situation, often extending beyond its original scope or boundaries. This is the general meaning. 2. Specifically in economics: an indirect economic effect of public expenditure, investment, or activity on sectors, regions, or groups not directly targeted. This effect can be positive (beneficial) or negative (detrimental).

Usage and Examples

General Use (Indirect Consequence):
- The conflict created a humanitarian spillover into neighboring countries.
- There was a significant spillover of excitement from the championship game throughout the entire town.
Economic Use (Effect of Public Expenditure):
- The new highway project had a positive spillover by increasing property values in nearby towns.
- Government investment in renewable energy research creates technological spillovers for the private sector.
- Economists study the spillover effects of a large factory closing on local small businesses.

Advanced Usage and Notes

The term is often used in the plural form "spillover effects" to emphasize multiple indirect consequences.
It is commonly found in discussions about economics, finance, policy, conflict, and environmental issues.
Conceptual Use: The word evokes the image of a liquid overflowing its container, metaphorically representing effects "overflowing" from one area into another.

Variants and Related Words

Spill over (verb phrase): To overflow or spread from one area into another.
- The protest began in the square and spilled over into the surrounding streets.
Spillover benefit (noun phrase): A positive indirect effect, synonymous with a positive externality in economics.
Spillover cost (noun phrase): A negative indirect effect, synonymous with a negative externality in economics.