What is a fiscal policy used to reduce economic growth by decreasing spending or increasing taxes called?

The correct term for a fiscal policy aimed at reducing economic growth through decreased government spending or increased taxes is known as contractionary policy. This type of policy is implemented when the government seeks to slow down an overheating economy, typically characterized by high inflation or unsustainably rapid growth. By reducing spending or raising taxes, contractionary policy effectively lowers the amount of money circulating in the economy, helping to curtail inflation and stabilize overall economic activity.

In this context, expansionary policy, which involves increasing government spending or decreasing taxes, is designed to stimulate economic growth and would be the opposite of contractionary policy. Monetary policy refers to actions taken by a country's central bank to regulate the money supply and interest rates and is distinct from fiscal policy, which is directly related to government spending and taxation. Budget policy generally pertains to the planning and allocation of resources within a government and does not specifically refer to the directive to slow down economic growth.