underprivileged
Not enjoying the same standard of living or rights as the majority of people in a society, due to lack of money, education, or opportunity.
Emphasizes a lack of social or economic advantages and opportunities compared to others, rather than just a lack of money. It highlights systemic inequality.
Word relationships
- disadvantaged: Similar meaning, emphasizing a lack of advantages.
- deprived: Means lacking something essential, often due to social or economic factors.
- privileged: Having special rights, advantages, or immunities.
- advantaged: Having a more favorable position or situation.
Commonly confused with
- poor: 'Underprivileged' is broader than 'poor,' encompassing lack of opportunity and rights, not just money.
Word family
- privilege (noun): A special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group.
Collocations
- underprivileged children
- underprivileged communities
- underprivileged youth
- socially underprivileged
Example sentences
- "The charity focuses on providing educational resources to underprivileged children in rural areas." Discussing educational disparities.
- "Access to quality healthcare remains a significant challenge for many underprivileged communities." From a report on social welfare.
Memory hook
Think of 'UNDER-privileged' as 'UNDER the level of privilege' that most people enjoy. Under the privilege line
When not to use
While it describes a state of disadvantage, it's a relatively mild term. For extreme poverty, use 'destitute' or 'impoverished.'
Fun facts
- The term gained prominence in the 20th century as societies became more aware of systemic inequalities beyond just income levels.
Explore more words
deprivation, marginalized, disenfranchise, marginalize, disparity, marginalization
Also appears in
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