What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
underprivileged
Example
The organization provides support and resources for underprivileged children in the community. [underprivileged: adjective]
Example
She grew up in an underprivileged neighborhood where access to quality education was limited. [underprivileged: adjective]
impoverished
Example
The government is working to address the needs of impoverished communities through economic development programs. [impoverished: adjective]
Example
The family was forced to live in an impoverished area after losing their home in a natural disaster. [impoverished: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Underprivileged is more commonly used in social and political contexts, while impoverished is more commonly used in economic and financial contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between underprivileged and impoverished?
Both underprivileged and impoverished are formal words that are appropriate in academic, professional, and official settings.