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What Is a Recession? Simple Definition and How It’s Measured
In brief
A recession is a significant, widespread decline in economic activity lasting more than a few months. In the U.S., the NBER dating committee is the common reference; other countries use their own statistical agencies.
A recession is a significant, widespread decline in economic activity lasting more than a few months. In the U.S., the NBER dating committee is the common reference; other countries use their own statistical agencies.
How is a recession officially declared?
Two quarters of falling GDP is a popular rule of thumb, not the only definition.
What should households watch?
Unemployment, income and industrial production also matter.
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Last updated: 12 Oct 2026. Re-check linked official sources before citing figures.
Why it matters
High-intent evergreen search with clear featured-snippet answer.
People also ask
Is a stock drop a recession?
No — markets can fall without a recession.
Who declares U.S. recessions?
The NBER Business Cycle Dating Committee.
Is this investment advice?
No.
Sources
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