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Prosperous: meaning, definitions and examples

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prosperous

 

[ˈprɒspərəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

financial success

Having success, good fortune, or wealth. Prosperous individuals are often financially stable and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Synonyms

affluent, successful, wealthy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prosperous

Best used to describe a person, business, or area that is doing very well economically. Often implies steady growth and success over a period of time.

  • The prosperous village had new schools and hospitals
  • He is a prosperous entrepreneur who started from nothing
successful

A general term that can be applied to anyone or anything that has achieved desired goals or outcomes. It doesn't necessarily relate only to financial success, but can also refer to accomplishments in various fields.

  • She is a successful author with several bestsellers
  • After years of hard work, he finally became successful in his career
wealthy

Used to describe individuals or groups with a large amount of money and assets. This term focuses specifically on financial status.

  • The wealthy businessman donated a large sum to charity
  • They live in a wealthy neighborhood with gated communities
affluent

Typically used to describe people, neighborhoods, or societies that have an abundance of wealth and material goods. It often has a connotation of luxury and high social status.

  • The affluent community boasted large homes and private schools
  • She comes from an affluent family and always wears designer clothes

Examples of usage

  • The prosperous businessman owned multiple companies.
  • She lived in a prosperous neighborhood with large houses and well-manicured lawns.
Context #2 | Adjective

general success

Thriving, flourishing, or doing well in various aspects of life. A prosperous career may include recognition, satisfaction, and growth.

Synonyms

flourishing, successful, thriving.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prosperous

Used to describe someone or something that is financially secure and wealthy.

  • He owns several businesses and lives in a prosperous neighborhood
successful

A general term used to describe someone or something that has achieved a desirable outcome or goal.

  • She has written several successful novels that have become bestsellers
flourishing

Used to describe something that is growing or developing successfully, often used for communities, industries, or environments.

  • The tech industry in Silicon Valley is flourishing with new startups and innovations
thriving

Often used to describe a person, business, or community that is doing exceptionally well, showing vigorous growth and activity.

  • The small town has been thriving since the new factory opened and brought many jobs

Examples of usage

  • The artist's paintings became increasingly popular, leading to a prosperous career.
  • The team worked together seamlessly, resulting in a prosperous project outcome.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'prosperare', meaning 'to succeed' or 'to thrive'.
  • It entered the English language in the mid-15th century, reflecting the values of success and well-being.
  • Over time, the term has evolved to encompass not just financial well-being but also social and personal flourishing.

Economics

  • Prosperity is often measured by indicators like GDP, employment rates, and living standards in a country.
  • Economists study the effects of education and innovation on prosperity, revealing how skills contribute to a nation's wealth.
  • A prosperous economy generally leads to increased investments in health, education, and infrastructure, improving overall quality of life.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures interpret prosperity in various ways; for some, it's financial wealth, while for others, it includes spiritual and communal well-being.
  • In many Eastern philosophies, prosperity is linked to balance and harmony in life, not just material gain.
  • Communities often celebrate prosperity through festivals and rituals, emphasizing gratitude and collective success.

Literature

  • Many literary works portray characters who seek prosperity, often facing challenges that test their values and morals along the way.
  • Famous texts like 'The Great Gatsby' depict the allure and pitfalls of prosperity, critiquing the American Dream.
  • Prosperity serves as a theme for characters' growth and societal commentary, revealing complex relationships between wealth and happiness.

Social Psychology

  • Research shows that people perceive themselves as more 'prosperous' when they have strong social connections and community support.
  • Psychological studies suggest that the feeling of prosperity contributes to increased overall happiness and life satisfaction.
  • The belief in the possibility of prosperity, often referred to as an optimistic mindset, can motivate individuals to work towards their goals.

Translations

Translations of the word "prosperous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 próspero

🇮🇳 समृद्ध (samriddh)

🇩🇪 wohlhabend

🇮🇩 makmur

🇺🇦 процвітаючий

🇵🇱 prosperujący

🇯🇵 繁栄している (han'ei shite iru)

🇫🇷 prospère

🇪🇸 próspero

🇹🇷 müreffeh

🇰🇷 번영하는 (beonyeonghaneun)

🇸🇦 مزدهر (muzdahir)

🇨🇿 prosperující

🇸🇰 prosperujúci

🇨🇳 繁荣的 (fánróng de)

🇸🇮 uspešen

🇮🇸 blómlegur

🇰🇿 гүлденген (güldengen)

🇬🇪 აყვავებული (aq'vavebuli)

🇦🇿 çiçəklənən

🇲🇽 próspero

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,708 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.