What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
needy
Example
The charity organization provides aid to the needy families in the community. [needy: adjective]
Example
She felt emotionally needy after her breakup and sought comfort from her friends. [needy: adjective]
poor
Example
The government provides financial assistance to poor families. [poor: adjective]
Example
The poor living conditions in the slums are a result of poverty. [poor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Poor is more commonly used than needy in everyday language. Poor is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while needy is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between needy and poor?
Both needy and poor are generally informal words, but poor can be used in formal contexts to describe economic or social issues.
