Welfare: meaning, definitions and examples

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welfare

 

[ ˈwɛlˌfɛr ]

Noun
Other
Context #1 | Noun

social support

Welfare refers to government aid provided to those in need, including financial assistance, healthcare, housing, and other social services. It is aimed at ensuring the basic needs and well-being of individuals and families who may be struggling financially or facing other challenges.

Synonyms

benefits, public assistance, social assistance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
welfare

Used to describe the general well-being of people or the provision of support by the government to individuals in need.

  • The government is committed to improving the welfare of all its citizens
  • Many families rely on welfare programs to make ends meet
social assistance

Typically used in the context of government programs aimed at helping those in economic hardship, often includes both financial aid and other forms of support.

  • Social assistance programs help lift people out of poverty
  • She relies on social assistance to cover her medical expenses
public assistance

Specifically refers to aid provided by the government to low-income individuals and families, usually including programs like food stamps and housing vouchers.

  • Public assistance programs are essential for supporting the most vulnerable members of society
  • He applied for public assistance to help cover his rent
benefits

Refers to financial aid or support provided by the government or employers, often in the form of money, services, or privileges.

  • She received unemployment benefits after losing her job
  • Employee benefits include health insurance and retirement plans

Examples of usage

  • Many families rely on welfare benefits to make ends meet.
  • The welfare system is designed to help vulnerable populations access essential services.
Context #2 | Noun

well-being

Welfare can also refer to the health, happiness, and prosperity of individuals or communities. It encompasses the overall quality of life and the state of being comfortable, healthy, and happy.

Synonyms

happiness, prosperity, well-being.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
welfare

Welfare is used when referring to the health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group, often in terms of financial support provided by the government.

  • The government is implementing new policies to improve the welfare of its citizens.
  • She works at an organization that focuses on child welfare.
well-being

Well-being is a broad term used to describe the overall health and comfort of a person or group. It includes physical, mental, and emotional aspects.

  • Regular exercise is important for your overall well-being.
  • The program is designed to enhance the well-being of the elderly.
prosperity

Prosperity refers to a state of being successful, usually in financial or material terms. It is often used in discussions about economic growth and wealth.

  • The country enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity.
  • Hard work and determination led to the company's prosperity.
happiness

Happiness is used when talking about a state of being happy, content, or satisfied. It is often related to emotions and personal well-being.

  • Her happiness was evident when she received the good news.
  • They wished each other happiness and success in life.

Examples of usage

  • The government aims to improve the welfare of its citizens through social programs and policies.
  • The welfare of the employees is a top priority for the company.

Translations

Translations of the word "welfare" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bem-estar

🇮🇳 कल्याण

🇩🇪 Wohlergehen

🇮🇩 kesejahteraan

🇺🇦 добробут

🇵🇱 dobrobyt

🇯🇵 福祉 (ふくし)

🇫🇷 bien-être

🇪🇸 bienestar

🇹🇷 refah

🇰🇷 복지 (bokji)

🇸🇦 رفاهية

🇨🇿 blaho

🇸🇰 blahobyt

🇨🇳 福利 (fúlì)

🇸🇮 blaginja

🇮🇸 velferð

🇰🇿 әл-ауқат

🇬🇪 კეთილდღეობა

🇦🇿 rifah

🇲🇽 bienestar

Etymology

The word 'welfare' has its origins in Old English, where 'wel' meant well and 'faran' meant to fare or journey. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the well-being and prosperity of individuals and communities. In the context of government aid, the modern concept of welfare emerged in the 20th century as a response to social and economic challenges.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,939, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.