Synonyms for

Poverty

Verb / ˈpɑ:vɜ:ti: / Another word for poverty — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The state of being extremely poor or lacking basic necessities of life.

Synonyms & similar words

poorness wealth impoverishment destitution neediness privation poorness lack scarcity paucity insufficiency deficiency shortage inadequacy hardship misery squalor penury indigence beggary mendicancy impecuniosity impecuniousness

Synonyms by register

Formal

destitution penury indigence deprivation

Informal

hardship struggle being broke down and out

Literary

want neediness privation

Antonyms

wealth affluence prosperity riches abundance opulence plenty

Common collocations

  • cycle of poverty
  • alleviate poverty
  • fight poverty
  • end poverty
  • extreme poverty
  • child poverty
  • poverty line
  • poverty reduction

Word family

noun poverty
adjective poor

Usage note

Poverty refers to the state of being extremely poor. While 'poor' can be used more broadly, 'poverty' specifically denotes a severe lack of basic necessities.

Example sentences

  1. 1. The family fell into poverty after the father lost his job.
  2. 2. Many children in poverty do not have access to basic education.
  3. 3. Poverty can lead to poor health and malnutrition.
  4. 4. The government is working to reduce poverty levels in the country.
  5. 5. It is important to help those in poverty and provide them with the resources they need.

Quotes

  • 1. 'Poverty is the parent of revolution and crime.' - Aristotle
  • 2. 'The greatest wealth is to live content with little.' - Plato
  • 3. 'Poverty is the worst form of violence.' - Mahatma Gandhi

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