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Underdevelopment: meaning, definitions and examples

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underdevelopment

 

[ ˌʌndərdɪˈveləpmənt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

economic

The state of being underdeveloped, especially in terms of industrialization, infrastructure, and standard of living.

Synonyms

backward, primitive, undeveloped.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
underdevelopment

It refers to a state where something is not fully developed yet, often used in economics or societal contexts.

  • The nation is grappling with underdevelopment, which affects its overall progress.
  • Underdevelopment in rural areas is a significant issue.
undeveloped

Similar to underdevelopment, but can imply a lack of development in physical, economic, or technological aspects.

  • The area remains undeveloped with no major infrastructure projects.
  • They are working on bringing basic services to the undeveloped regions.
backward

This term often carries a negative connotation, implying that something or someone is behind in progress or development.

  • Some people still hold backward views on gender equality.
  • The region was described as backward due to its lack of modern infrastructure.
primitive

Often used to describe something that is in an early stage of development or has not evolved much, usually in a historical or technological sense.

  • The tools they used were very primitive compared to what we have today.
  • Primitive societies often had their own unique ways of life.

Examples of usage

  • Many countries in Africa are struggling with underdevelopment.
  • Underdevelopment often leads to poverty and social inequality.
  • The government is implementing policies to address underdevelopment in rural areas.
Context #2 | Noun

social

The lack of progress or advancement in a particular area or aspect of society.

Synonyms

lagging, stagnation, underachievement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
underdevelopment

Refer to a place or sector that has not reached an expected level of progress or growth. Often used in discussions about economies, infrastructure, and social conditions.

  • The underdevelopment of rural areas has hindered access to healthcare and education
lagging

Describe something that is falling behind in progress, quality, or performance compared to others. Often used in technological, economic, or social contexts.

  • Our company's market share is lagging behind its competitors due to outdated technology
stagnation

Talk about a state where there is no growth or development, often used in economic or business contexts. Implying a negative situation where progress has halted.

  • The economic stagnation in the country has led to high unemployment rates
underachievement

Highlight situations where the results are below potential or expectations, commonly used in education and professional performance.

  • Despite his intelligence, his academic record shows severe underachievement

Examples of usage

  • Underdevelopment in education can hinder a country's growth.
  • Addressing underdevelopment in healthcare is crucial for improving public health.
  • The underdevelopment of technology in the region is holding back economic growth.

Translations

Translations of the word "underdevelopment" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subdesenvolvimento

🇮🇳 अविकसितता

🇩🇪 Unterentwicklung

🇮🇩 kurang berkembang

🇺🇦 недорозвиненість

🇵🇱 niedorozwinięcie

🇯🇵 未発展

🇫🇷 sous-développement

🇪🇸 subdesarrollo

🇹🇷 az gelişmişlik

🇰🇷 저개발

🇸🇦 التخلف

🇨🇿 zaostalost

🇸🇰 zaostalosť

🇨🇳 欠发达

🇸🇮 nerazvitost

🇮🇸 vanþróun

🇰🇿 артта қалу

🇬🇪 განუვითარებლობა

🇦🇿 geridəlik

🇲🇽 subdesarrollo

Etymology

The term 'underdevelopment' originated in the mid-20th century during the period of decolonization and the emergence of newly independent nations. It was used to describe the economic and social conditions of countries that were considered less developed compared to industrialized nations. The concept of underdevelopment has been a subject of debate among economists and policymakers, with discussions focusing on factors such as colonial legacy, globalization, and structural inequalities.

See also: develop, developable, developed, developer, developers, developing, developments, redevelop, redevelopment, undeveloped.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,374, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.