Translation

景気後退 / 不況 / リセッション

Meaning

A period of temporary economic decline, typically defined as two consecutive quarters (six months) of negative economic growth (falling GDP). 'The country entered a recession after the financial crisis.' A recession is less severe than a 'depression' (a longer, deeper decline). Common signs: rising unemployment, reduced consumer spending, falling stock markets. 'Recession' is a countable noun: 'a recession', 'the recession', 'two recessions'.

Examples

• 2008年の金融危機はグローバルな景気後退を引き起こした。
  The 2008 financial crisis triggered a global recession.
• 景気後退期には多くの企業が従業員を解雇した。
  During the recession, many companies laid off employees.