B1noun2K

Poverty

UK /["/ˈpɒvəti/"]/US /["/ˈpɑːvərti/"]/

Definition

the state of being poor

In simple words: Not having enough money for basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing.

Examples

  • Many families live in poverty and struggle to meet their basic needs.
  • Poverty can lead to a range of social issues, including crime and lack of education.
  • The government has implemented new programs aimed at reducing poverty in urban areas.
  • Rural poverty presents unique challenges compared to urban poverty.
  • Charities often focus on alleviating poverty through various support services.

Usage notes

Used in social and economic discussions. Be careful not to use it lightly in casual contexts; it's a serious issue. Avoid informal language when discussing poverty.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'poverty' like 'poor city'—imagine a city struggling with economic challenges.

Collocations

  • abject
  • absolute
  • extreme
  • alleviate
  • combat
  • fight
  • trap
  • rate
  • reduction
  • in poverty
  • poverty  among
  • poverty  of
  • above/​below/​under the poverty level
  • above/​below/​under the poverty line
  • at the poverty level

Synonyms

  • destitution
  • impoverishment
  • lack
  • deprivation

Antonyms

  • wealth
  • affluence
  • prosperity

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'poor' as an adjective when describing a person.
  • Using 'poverty' only in economic contexts; it can also refer to cultural or social aspects.
  • Omitting the seriousness of the issue when discussing.