Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a poor quality of life
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"a poor quality of life" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation where a person's life lacks certain comforts or opportunities, such as financial security, physical health, emotional well-being, or social acceptance. For example: "After losing his job, he was forced to live in poverty, leading to a poor quality of life."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
Loneliness causes misery and a poor quality of life for too many people.
News & Media
However, not everyone who we would deem to have a poor quality of life wishes to die.
News & Media
A million or more enterprising Poles, fed up with grotty public services and a poor quality of life, have voted with their feet to work abroad.
News & Media
Consultant cardiologist Dr Nick Banner, who led the Harefield Hospital team that operated on Adams, said: "Advanced heart failure is a progressive condition that results in a poor quality of life and shortened life expectancy.
News & Media
Patients are subject to frequent acute hospital readmissions due to poor symptom control and often suffer a poor quality of life, particularly during the latter stages of their illness.
News & Media
The high incidence of complications attending the procedure leads to a poor quality of life and potential life-threatening problems.
It is associated with a poor quality of life, which improves when the frequency of syncope is reduced.
Science
This is resulting in a higher BMI then is recommended, which can result in depression, and a poor quality of life.
News & Media
"It's unfair on patients and their families - particularly those in pain, suffering from a poor quality of life, and the vulnerable," he said.
News & Media
Children with specific learning disabilities (SpLD) are likely to develop self-stigma and have a poor quality of life (QoL) because of their poor academic performance.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
1 human-written examples
A poor quality-of-life.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider using the phrase in conjunction with statistical data to highlight the extent of the problem. For instance, "Studies show that individuals in this region experience a poor quality of life due to environmental pollution."
Common error
Avoid attributing "a poor quality of life" to a single factor without considering the complex interplay of economic, social, and environmental influences. Acknowledge the multifaceted nature of well-being.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a poor quality of life" functions as a noun phrase acting as an object or complement in a sentence. It describes a state of existence characterized by hardship, deprivation, or diminished well-being, as supported by Ludwig's examples.
Frequent in
Science
54%
News & Media
33%
Formal & Business
4%
Less common in
Wiki
2%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The analysis reveals that the phrase "a poor quality of life" is grammatically correct and very commonly used across diverse contexts such as science, news, and formal communication. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English, indicating it describes a situation where someone's life lacks comforts or opportunities. The phrase functions as a noun phrase to express concern or highlight negative impacts on well-being, often to inspire action. While applicable in neutral and formal registers, you should use this phrase cautiously, and be specific when describing the reasons behind “a poor quality of life” to avoid overgeneralizations. Alternatives include "a diminished existence" or "a substandard lifestyle", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a life lacking in fulfillment
Highlights the absence of satisfaction and meaning in life.
a substandard lifestyle
Focuses on the living conditions and everyday habits, implying they are below an acceptable standard.
a life fraught with difficulties
Emphasizes the presence of numerous problems and obstacles.
a life of hardship
Emphasizes the difficulties and struggles experienced throughout life.
a diminished existence
This alternative emphasizes the reduced or lessened nature of one's life, suggesting a lack of fulfillment or opportunity.
a deprived life
Stresses the lack of essential resources and opportunities.
a miserable existence
Highlights the unhappiness and suffering associated with the individual's life.
a struggle for survival
Highlights the difficulty in meeting basic needs and staying alive.
a challenging life situation
Focuses on the difficulties and adversities faced, but is more neutral and less emotionally charged.
an unenviable situation
Focuses on the undesirable nature of the circumstances.
FAQs
How can I effectively use "a poor quality of life" in a sentence?
Use "a poor quality of life" to describe situations where individuals or communities experience significant challenges in their well-being due to factors like poverty, illness, or lack of opportunity. For example, "The residents of the slum endure "a poor quality of life" due to unsanitary conditions and limited access to healthcare."
What are some alternatives to saying "a poor quality of life"?
Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a diminished existence", "a substandard lifestyle", or "a life of hardship" to convey similar meanings.
Which is more appropriate: "a low quality of life" or "a poor quality of life"?
Both "a low quality of life" and "a poor quality of life" are acceptable, but "a poor quality of life" tends to emphasize the negative impact on well-being more strongly. "Low quality of life" can sometimes refer to more objective measures, while "a poor quality of life" often implies subjective suffering.
What factors typically contribute to "a poor quality of life"?
Many factors can contribute to "a poor quality of life", including poverty, lack of education, inadequate healthcare, social isolation, environmental pollution, and political instability. These factors often interact and reinforce each other, creating cycles of disadvantage.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested