What’s the difference between a recession and a depression?

September 15, 2009

recession

Recession is 2 quarters of loss? I know a depression is worse, but what exactly is the difference and does the US have a chance of expierencing one anytime soon?

Repossession

Related articles:

  1. What’s the difference between recession and depression? My friend keeps calling it a depression. I tried correcting her its a recession. Whats the difference? Isn’t a depression worse?Repossession ...
  2. Whats the difference between (ecomonic) Depression and Recession. Seeking basic easy to understand definition? . Looking it up on-line it stated that if the financial events go on for three or more quarters, etc. Yet, I still found it challenging to comprehend the...
  3. What is the difference between a recession and a depression? What defines either? When do we know that we are in either a recession or a depression? What barometer is used?Rent Back Fast ...

{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

Doctor J September 15, 2009 at 4:35 pm

A depression is defined as 25% unemployment. Your definition of recession is correct.

misha81s September 17, 2009 at 4:52 pm

I think 25% unemployment is what occurred during the Great Depression but I’ve never heard of depression being specifically defined this way. Generally is it just a more severe recession. I think if unemployment reached 20% it would be considered depression.

THINKABOUTIT September 20, 2009 at 10:57 am

The Difference is that a Depression is simply just a Very Long & more Severe Recession.
So it’s like a recession except that it’s a more severe recession & lasts much longer than an average recession.
& could be, yes. The U.S does have a chance of experiencing a Depression soon.

Let’s just hope the U.S won’t say : Solution?= War. Because if it does say that, either it’s going to be a horrible horrible conflict or the termination of the human race.
After All Hillary Clinton already said that if she’s elected president she will Completely Destroy Iran, if Iran nukes Israel.
So yes, WW3 it could be just around the corner.

debijs September 21, 2009 at 5:27 pm

I read a report where “economist” say the difference is “It’s a recession if your neighbor is out of work, it’s a depression if you’re out of work.” Guess that does put it in a nutshell!

Leave a Comment

Previous post: What are the risks to voluntary auto repossession?

Next post: Want to Be a Contributing Writer for About.com?