In economic terms, what does it mean when demand is price inelastic?

When demand is described as price inelastic, it signifies that the quantity demanded for a good or service remains relatively stable despite changes in its price. This means that even if the price rises or falls, the volume of demand does not change significantly.

This characteristic is often seen in essential goods or services for which consumers have limited substitutes—for example, basic necessities such as food, gasoline, or certain medications. Consumers will continue to purchase these items regardless of price fluctuations because their need for the product remains constant.

Understanding this concept is crucial for businesses and policymakers, as it affects pricing strategies and revenue projections. If a business knows that its product has inelastic demand, it might choose to increase prices since the demand won't significantly decrease, allowing them to potentially increase revenue.