dovish
2 antonyms and opposites of dovish, grouped by meaning.
Adjective — In economics, favouring low interest rates and looser monetary policy, typically because supporting employment and growth is treated as more pressing than the risk of inflation.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adjective
In economics, favouring low interest rates and looser monetary policy, typically because supporting employment and growth is treated as more pressing than the risk of inflation.
“The minutes read as dovish, and bond yields fell.”
Opposites
2. adjective
In politics and foreign policy, favouring negotiation and restraint over the use of military force.
“He took a dovish line on the intervention and was voted down.”
Opposites
Antonyms
How to use dovish
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Financial journalism and political commentary; not a formal technical term.
Etymology
From dove, long a symbol of peace, extended to policymakers who favour restraint, and from there to central bankers who favour low rates. Formed with the adjective suffix -ish.
Full origin of dovish →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between dovish and hawkish?
A dovish policymaker leans towards lower interest rates and easier money to support growth and jobs. A hawkish one leans towards higher rates and tighter money to hold inflation down. The same pair is used in foreign policy for peace-leaning versus force-leaning.
Why do markets react to dovish comments?
Dovish signals imply cheaper borrowing for longer, which usually lifts share prices and pushes bond yields and the currency down. Traders price the expected path of rates, so the tone of a statement can move markets even when nothing has actually changed.