The spelling of "consumer price index" is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which is a standardized set of symbols used to represent the sounds of spoken language. The first syllable "con" is pronounced /kən/ with a short "u" sound. The second syllable "su-mər" is pronounced /sjuːmər/ with a long "u" sound. The third syllable "price" is pronounced /praɪs/ with a long "i" sound. The final syllable "in-dex" is pronounced /ˈɪn,dɛks/ with stress on the first syllable and a short "e" sound in the second syllable.
The consumer price index (CPI) is a statistical measure that quantifies the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a basket of goods and services. It serves as an essential tool for gauging inflationary trends and assessing the purchasing power of consumers. The CPI is commonly used by economists, policymakers, and businesses to evaluate price movements and adjust economic policies accordingly.
Composed of thousands of products and services, the CPI basket represents the consumption patterns of the urban population, encompassing various categories such as food, housing, transportation, healthcare, education, and entertainment. Each category is assigned a specific weight based on its significance in average consumer spending. The prices of these items are rigorously collected on a monthly basis from designated retail outlets, service providers, rental establishments, and healthcare facilities.
The consumer price index calculates price changes by comparing the current cost of the CPI basket with a base period's cost. It is expressed as a percentage increase or decrease relative to the chosen base year, which is assigned a value of 100. By tracking the CPI's fluctuations, economists can monitor inflation levels and make necessary monetary and fiscal decisions. This information aids policymakers in formulating effective strategies to stabilize prices, control inflation, and ensure economic stability. Furthermore, the CPI allows individuals to understand the impact of inflation on their purchasing power, thereby aiding in informed decision-making regarding personal finance and budgeting.