Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
mercantilism
noun
/ MUR-kuhn-tee-liz-uhm /
Hard
Meaning
An economic doctrine holding that national wealth is maximised by promoting exports, restricting imports, and accumulating bullion or reserves.
Origin / Etymology
From Latin ''mercari'' (to trade), via French ''mercantile''.
Synonyms
protectionism
economic nationalism
trade regulation
bullionism
Antonyms
free trade
liberalism
open economy
globalism
Example Sentence
"Analysts described the tariff war as a return to mercantilism, with each economy seeking a trade surplus at its rivals'' expense."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Deploy in GS Paper 3 answers on international trade and GS Paper 1 on colonial economic history, where mercantilist policy drained wealth from India. Contrast it with comparative advantage and the WTO framework when writing on protectionism and self-reliance.
Relevant Subjects
📰 Related Articles
9 Aug
Current Affairs Today, August 9, 2026
9 Aug
Parliament Passes the MSMED Overhaul: Decriminalisation...
8 Aug
Current Affairs Today, August 8, 2026
✍️ Related Editorials
A new UPSC word every morning
Word of the Day at 7am, plus daily current affairs and free PDFs
Join Channel
