for their livelihoods

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for their livelihoods" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the means by which individuals or groups earn a living or sustain themselves financially. Example: "Many people rely on agriculture for their livelihoods, as it provides them with the necessary resources to support their families."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some of these girls are playing for their livelihoods.

The New York Times

But musicians rely on air travel for their livelihoods.

The Economist

But farmers and fishermen fear for their livelihoods.

The New York Times

Some 80% of Malawians depend on tobacco for their livelihoods.

The Economist

Millions of people depend on degraded land for their livelihoods.

Land Restoration Reclaiming Landscapes for a Sustainable Future

Many local people who rely on the orchard industry for their livelihoods are concerned.

The New York Times

Go-go girls and "masseuses", fearing for their livelihoods, have held protest marches.

The Economist

Teachers and nurses also depend on the government for their livelihoods.

The New York Times

Scientists always say that more research is needed, for their livelihoods depend on it.

The Economist

Such confidence from people who depend on investors for their livelihoods is to be expected.

Independent

Rural communities Rural communities are highly dependent upon natural resources for their livelihoods and social structures.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the impact of environmental changes or economic policies, use "for their livelihoods" to underscore the direct connection between these factors and people's ability to earn a living.

Common error

While "for their livelihoods" is broadly applicable, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more precise alternatives like "for their economic stability" or "for their financial security" to enhance clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for their livelihoods" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating the reason or purpose behind an action or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely used. Examples in the provided text demonstrate its use to highlight reliance on specific resources or industries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for their livelihoods" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something is essential to people's ability to earn a living. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business settings. When writing, consider using this phrase to emphasize the impact of environmental changes or economic policies on people's financial well-being. While versatile, be mindful of overuse in highly formal contexts, where more precise alternatives might be preferred. The phrase enjoys widespread use in authoritative sources, making it a reliable choice for conveying this meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to make a living

A common idiom that emphasizes the act of earning enough money to survive.

for their economic survival

Directly addresses the financial aspect of staying alive or solvent.

to secure their income

Focuses on the act of obtaining income, highlighting the financial aspect of livelihoods.

to ensure their financial well-being

Emphasizes the importance of financial health and security.

to earn their sustenance

Emphasizes the basic necessities for survival, focusing on earning what is needed to live.

to support their families

Highlights the responsibility of providing for dependents, linking livelihoods to family well-being.

to sustain their way of life

Focuses on maintaining a particular lifestyle or cultural practice.

to maintain their standard of living

Focuses on preserving a certain quality of life, rather than just basic survival.

to keep themselves afloat

An idiomatic expression indicating a struggle to remain financially stable.

to provide for their needs

A general phrase encompassing all the requirements for living, not just financial ones.

FAQs

How can I use "for their livelihoods" in a sentence?

Use "for their livelihoods" to show that something is essential to someone's ability to make a living. For example, "Many farmers depend on consistent rainfall "for their livelihoods"".

What are some alternatives to "for their livelihoods"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to make a living", "to earn their sustenance", or "for their economic survival", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "depend on something for livelihood" instead of "for their livelihoods"?

While "depend on something for livelihood" is grammatically understandable, it is less common and less idiomatic than "for their livelihoods". The latter is the more natural and widely accepted phrasing.

What's the difference between saying "for their livelihoods" and "for their survival"?

"For their livelihoods" specifically refers to how people earn a living and support themselves financially. "For their survival" is a broader term that encompasses all aspects of staying alive, including but not limited to financial means. Livelihoods are a key component of survival, but survival includes also access to food, water, shelter, and safety.