What type of tax is specifically levied on the consumption of a particular good or activity?

An excise tax is specifically designed to target the consumption of particular goods or activities. This type of tax is typically imposed on specific products such as tobacco, alcohol, gasoline, and certain luxury items, or on activities like highway usage. The rationale behind an excise tax often includes discouraging the consumption of products that can have negative impacts on health or the environment, or generating revenue for specific public services related to the good or activity being taxed.

In contrast, income tax is assessed on earnings or revenue generated by individuals and corporations, making it a broader tax that is not linked to the consumption of goods or specific activities. Sales tax, while also related to consumer goods, is generally imposed on a wider array of products at the point of sale and does not target specific goods. Property tax is levied on real estate based on its assessed value and is not applicable to consumption. Hence, excise tax is unique in its focus on specific goods or activities, aligning with the definition in the question.