Definition of Monetary
Quick Meaning of Monetary
Having to do with money and how much of it is available in the economy. Describes policies that control money and interest rates.
Detailed Definition of Monetary
Relating to money or currency in circulation; concerning the supply and management of money in an economy.
How to Pronounce Monetary
Stress pattern: Oooo (4-syllable word).
Tip: MAH-nuh-ter-ee (4 syllables). Stress the first syllable strongly: MAH-nuh-ter-ee. The 'a' in 'monetary' rhymes with 'father'.
Watch out: Learners sometimes say 'muh-NET-ary' (stressing the second syllable) or mispronounce the first vowel. Stress MAH strongly and keep the rest quick.
Origin and Etymology of Monetary
From Latin 'monetarius' (relating to coins/mint), derived from 'moneta' (mint, money). The word entered English by the 14th century. Modern usage emphasizes control of money supply and interest rates.
How to Use Monetary in a Sentence
Each example shows “monetary” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The central bank announced a new monetary policy to control inflation.”
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“Monetary decisions affect interest rates and borrowing costs for consumers.”
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“The government and monetary authorities work together on economic stability.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Monetary
Common Synonyms for Monetary
Smart Synonyms for Monetary — When to Use Each
- financial
- Broader money-related matters and banking
- currency-related
- Focuses on actual money and exchange rates
Common Collocations with Monetary
These phrases pair with “monetary” in everyday English:
- monetary policy
- monetary system
- monetary authority
- monetary union
- tight monetary
Common Mistakes When Using Monetary
Even fluent speakers slip up with “monetary”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The government uses monetary taxes to control the economy.
- ✓ Correct: The government uses monetary policy to control the economy.
- Why: Monetary relates to money supply, not taxes. Use 'monetary policy' not 'monetary taxes'. Taxes are fiscal.
- ✗ Wrong: Monetary decisions are made by government ministers alone.
- ✓ Correct: Monetary decisions are often made by independent central banks.
- Why: Monetary policy is typically controlled by central banks, not directly by government.
- ✗ Wrong: The monetary effect on prices are immediate.
- ✓ Correct: The monetary effect on prices is immediate.
- Why: Effect is singular; use 'is' not 'are'.
Words Confused With Monetary
Other Forms of Monetary
Frequently Asked Questions About Monetary
What is the meaning of "Monetary"?
Having to do with money and how much of it is available in the economy. Describes policies that control money and interest rates.
How do you pronounce "Monetary"?
The IPA is /ˈmɑːnɪteri/. MAH-nuh-ter-ee (4 syllables). Stress the first syllable strongly: MAH-nuh-ter-ee. The 'a' in 'monetary' rhymes with 'father'.
What part of speech is "Monetary"?
"Monetary" is an adjective at C1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Monetary"?
Common synonyms include financial, fiscal, currency-related.
How do you use "Monetary" in a sentence?
For example: "The central bank announced a new monetary policy to control inflation."