What economic scenario is characterized by the economy shrinking for two successive quarters?

The scenario in which the economy is characterized by shrinking for two successive quarters is referred to as a recession. This term arises from the definition that a recession is typically identified by a decline in gross domestic product (GDP) over two consecutive quarters. During a recession, economic activity slows down, resulting in lower consumer spending, reduced business investment, and often higher unemployment rates. It reflects a significant downturn in economic performance that affects businesses, consumers, and overall economic health.

In contrast, austerity refers to government policies aimed at reducing public sector debt through spending cuts and increased taxes, not necessarily tied to a two-quarter economic decline. Inflation involves the general rise in prices and fall in purchasing value of money, which does not indicate economic contraction. Lastly, depression describes a more severe and prolonged downturn than a recession, typically marked by significant declines in economic activity and longer-lasting impacts on the economy. Thus, the characteristics of a recession align specifically with the definition that includes two consecutive quarters of economic contraction.