adjective
dovish
DUV-ish
Dovish (adjective) means 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. Example: “The minutes read as dovish, and bond yields fell.”
adjective
1
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."
"Two dovish members voted to hold rates rather than raise them."
2
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."
How to use dovish
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIn favour of keeping interest rates low, or of avoiding a fight.
When to use it
Financial journalism and political commentary; not a formal technical term.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
dovish tone
dovish pivot
dovish tilt
sounded dovish
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The minutes read as _____, and bond yields fell.
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.
Synonyms
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Related words
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.
What is the meaning of dovish?
"dovish" (adjective) means 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.
What is another word for dovish?
Other words for "dovish" include accommodative, easing, soft, pacifist, pacifistic, conciliatory.
