Underprivileged: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in discussions about social and economic issues to describe individuals or groups who do not have the same opportunities or resources as others. It is more formal and commonly used in policy, charity, and academic contexts.

• The charity focuses on providing educational resources to underprivileged children.
• Efforts are being made to improve living conditions for the underprivileged communities.

Typically used to describe individuals or groups that face barriers to success, such as limited access to education, healthcare, or job opportunities. It is often used in social and educational contexts.

• Programs have been established to support disadvantaged students in higher education.
• The initiative aims to create job opportunities for disadvantaged communities.

This term is used to describe someone who lacks the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, or education. It has a somewhat negative connotation, emphasizing the absence of essential resources.

• The organization helps families in deprived areas gain access to clean drinking water.
• Many children in the deprived neighborhoods suffer from malnutrition.

A general term used to describe individuals or groups who lack financial resources. It can be used in various contexts, from casual conversation to formal discussions. It often has a straightforward and sometimes negative connotation.

• The government is working on policies to help the poor.

This word describes people who are in need of financial aid or assistance. It carries a straightforward connotation and is often used in charitable contexts.

• The food drive aims to collect supplies for needy families.
• Volunteers distributed blankets and clothing to the needy during the winter months.

This term is commonly used in formal settings, reports, or discussions to describe people who lack basic resources and opportunities compared to others.

• The charity aims to support underprivileged children with educational resources.
• Programs for underprivileged communities are essential to ensuring equal opportunities.

Often used in both formal and informal contexts to describe people who face social, economic, or other disadvantages.

• Scholarships are available for disadvantaged individuals to help them pursue higher education.
• The government has introduced new measures to assist disadvantaged individuals in the job market.

This phrase is typically used in more compassionate or empathetic settings, often in speeches or when encouraging donations and support.

• During the holiday season, it's important to remember the less fortunate.
• Volunteers worked tirelessly to provide meals for the less fortunate.

A general and compassionate term, suitable for discussions about charity and assistance programs, it is often used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The organization raises funds to help those in need around the world.
• Emergency supplies were distributed to those in need after the natural disaster.