What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
indigency
Example
The government provides assistance to those in indigency. [indigency: noun]
Example
The family was forced into indigency after the breadwinner lost their job. [indigency: noun]
destitution
Example
The homeless man was living in destitution on the streets. [destitution: noun]
Example
The family was reduced to destitution after a natural disaster destroyed their home and belongings. [destitution: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Destitution is more commonly used than indigency in everyday language. Destitution is a more versatile word that covers a wider range of contexts and has a stronger emotional impact than indigency.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between indigency and destitution?
Indigency may be considered more formal or outdated than destitution. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.
