restrained buying; holding back on purchases; consumer reluctance to buy
Refers to people or companies deliberately buying less or delaying purchases, often because of price rises, uncertainty, tax changes, or poor economic conditions.
As price hikes continue, consumers are increasingly holding back on purchases.
People are noticeably refraining from buying high-priced items.
Due to the price hikes, consumers are holding back on buying vegetables.
Consumers are holding back on buying luxury goods.
After the tax increase, consumer reluctance to buy spread widely.