Destitution: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'destitution' when describing a severe, extreme level of poverty. It often implies a lack of basic necessities like food, shelter, and clothing. This term is dramatic and emphasizes a dire situation.

• The earthquake left thousands of people in a state of destitution.
• Living in destitution, they had no choice but to beg for food.

Use 'poverty' to describe the general state of having little or no money and few material possessions. It is a broad term that can apply to various situations and is commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

• Many families live in poverty, struggling to meet their basic needs.
• Efforts to reduce poverty have focused on education and job creation.

Use 'impoverishment' when talking about the process or state of becoming poor or losing financial stability. It can be temporary or progressive and typically refers to a decline from a previously stable state.

• The war led to the impoverishment of the entire nation.
• Decades of mismanagement resulted in the impoverishment of the farming community.