Hyperinflation

In economics, hyperinflation occurs when a country experiences very high, accelerating, and perceptibly "unstoppable" rates of inflation. In such a condition, the general price level within an economy rapidly increases as the currency quickly loses real value. Meanwhile, the real values of specific economic items generally stay the same with respect to each other, and in terms of other relatively stable foreign currencies. This includes the economic items that generally constitute the government's expenses.

The difference between inflation and hyperinflation is technically one of degrees (see the "definitions" section below).

Unlike regular inflation, where this process is protracted and not generally noticeable except perhaps by studying past market prices, hyperinflation sees a rapid and continuing increase in the supply of money, and the cost of goods.

Hyperinflation is often associated with wars, their aftermath, sociopolitical upheavals, or other crises that make it difficult for the government to tax the population, as a sudden and sharp decrease in tax revenue coupled with a strong effort to maintain the status quo can be a direct trigger of hyperinflation.