Welfare: meaning, definitions and examples
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welfare
[ ˈwɛlˌfɛr ]
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?
Word | Description / Examples |
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welfare |
Used to describe the general well-being of people or the provision of support by the government to individuals in need.
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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.
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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.
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benefits |
Refers to financial aid or support provided by the government or employers, often in the form of money, services, or privileges.
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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.
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?
Word | Description / Examples |
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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- 1936 laboratory
- 1937 philosophy
- 1938 unique
- 1939 welfare
- 1940 leadership
- 1941 movements
- 1942 remove
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