A market decline of 20% or more from recent highs.
A bear market is a drop of at least 20% from a recent peak, usually accompanied by pessimism and fear. They are a normal, recurring part of investing and historically have been followed by recoveries. Selling during a bear market locks in losses; for long-term investors, downturns are often the best buying opportunities.
Continuing to invest each month through a bear market means buying shares on sale.