The spelling of "demographic bulge" follows the English language's standard phonetic spelling system, where each sound is represented by specific letters. The IPA phonetic transcription for "demographic bulge" is /dɛməˈɡræfɪk bʌldʒ/. This means that the word is made up of seven syllables, each pronounced with a distinct sound. The word refers to a demographic trend where there is a significant increase in the population of a particular age group, leading to a bulge in the demographic profile.
A demographic bulge refers to a significant increase or concentrated rise in the population size within a particular age group or cohort within a given population or society. It is characterized by a sudden surge or peak in the number of individuals falling within, typically, a specific age range or generation. This demographic phenomenon often occurs due to various factors such as increased fertility rates, decreased mortality rates, or significant changes in migration patterns.
The term "demographic bulge" is commonly associated with population pyramids, which graphically depict the age and gender distribution of a population. The bulge is depicted as a widening or a peak in the graph, representing a larger number of individuals in a particular age range compared to other cohorts. The resulting bulge can have diverse implications for the affected society and its various sectors, including social, economic, and political spheres.
Demographic bulges often have profound effects on a society's infrastructure, institutions, and policies, as they can lead to increased demands for education, healthcare, job opportunities, and social welfare programs. This impact may be temporary, as the bulge eventually moves through different stages of life, leading to subsequent shifts in the age distribution. Understanding and anticipating demographic bulges is crucial for policymakers and governments to effectively plan and allocate resources to meet the evolving needs and challenges posed by these distinct population structures.
The term "demographic bulge" is a combination of two words: "demographic" and "bulge".
The word "demographic" refers to the study of human populations and their characteristics, such as age, gender, income, education, etc. It comes from the Greek word "dēmos", meaning "people", and "grapho", meaning "to write".
The word "bulge" is used here to describe a significant increase or a swelling in a particular part or component. It comes from the Old Norse word "boga", meaning "a bow or a bend".
Therefore, "demographic bulge" is a term used to describe a significant increase or a swelling in a specific age group or cohort within a population, often resulting in distinct social, economic, and political effects.