underprivileged

Everyday

Underprivileged means having less money, fewer chances and fewer good things in life than most people. tree →

In the lessons

Used in news, charity and formal school language: «underprivileged children», «underprivileged areas». It tells the reader that people face hardship and need help, and it is a softer word than «poor».

Examples

• The charity gives books to underprivileged children. tree →
• Our school collects toys for underprivileged families. tree →
• She grew up in an underprivileged area. tree →
• Every child, privileged or underprivileged, deserves a good school. tree →
• The club offers free sports for underprivileged kids. tree →
• The money helps the underprivileged in our city. tree →

Note

Spelling: under + privileged (no «d» before «g»: privileged, not «priviledged»). Opposite: privileged. It is a polite, formal word; avoid labelling a friend with it.