===== Inflation =====

In general, **inflation** refers to the **increase in the quantity or value of something that leads to a decrease in its real significance or worth**. While most commonly used in economics, the concept also applies metaphorically in science, academia, and language.

==== Types of Inflation ====

  * **Economic Inflation**  
    > A general increase in prices and a fall in the purchasing value of money over time.

  * **Scientific or Academic Inflation**  
    > The excessive use of terms, titles, or metrics that dilutes their meaning (e.g., ''buzzword inflation'', ''degree inflation'').

  * **Language Inflation**  
    > When terms are exaggerated or overused, reducing their clarity or impact (e.g., calling every minor study ''groundbreaking'').

==== Summary ====
> **Inflation**, beyond economics, often signals a **loss of meaning due to overuse or overabundance**.