Poverty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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poverty

[หˆpษ’vษ™ti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

social issue

Poverty is the state of being extremely poor, lacking the means to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. It is often characterized by a lack of access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

Synonyms

destitution, impoverishment, privation.

Examples of usage

  • Millions of people around the world live in poverty, struggling to survive on less than a dollar a day.
  • The government has implemented various programs to help lift families out of poverty and provide them with the necessary support.
  • Poverty is a complex issue with deep-rooted causes that require systemic change to address effectively.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the Latin 'pauper', meaning 'poor' or 'needy', which has evolved over centuries.
  • Poverty has been a part of human history since ancient times, often tied to wars, famines, and social structures.
  • In medieval Europe, the rise of towns brought different classes, making poverty more visible and prompting social reforms.

Global Perspectives

  • Around 9.2% of the world's population lives on less than $1.90 a day, the international poverty line set by the World Bank.
  • In many countries, poverty is often linked with lack of access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
  • Natural disasters and climate change are leading causes of poverty, especially in vulnerable regions.

Economics

  • Economists measure poverty in different ways, including absolute poverty (lack of basic needs) and relative poverty (compared to the living standards of others in society).
  • Poverty can stifle economic growth, as it restricts the abilities of individuals to contribute to their communityโ€™s economy.
  • Investing in education and skills training is considered one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty levels.

Psychology

  • Living in poverty can have significant effects on mental health, with higher rates of anxiety and depression reported among low-income individuals.
  • The stress of financial insecurity can impact decision-making, leading to a cycle of hardship that is hard to escape.
  • Studies suggest that children who grow up in poverty are more likely to experience cognitive delays, which can affect their future opportunities.

Literature and Media

  • Many famous novels and films depict the struggles of poverty, including 'The Grapes of Wrath' by John Steinbeck and 'The Pursuit of Happyness'.
  • Diverse voices in literature highlight personal stories of poverty, fostering empathy and understanding in readers.
  • Documentaries and investigative journalism often uncover the realities of poverty, influencing public opinion and policy change.

Origin of 'poverty'

The word 'poverty' has its origins in the Latin word 'paupertas', which means 'lack of means'. Throughout history, poverty has been a persistent challenge faced by societies across the globe. It has been a subject of social, economic, and political discourse, with efforts made to alleviate its impact through various initiatives and policies.


See also: poor, poorer, poorly.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,655, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.