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
highly disadvantaged
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "highly disadvantaged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals or groups that face significant obstacles or challenges, often in socio-economic contexts. Example: "The program aims to provide support and resources for highly disadvantaged communities to help them improve their living conditions."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(5)
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
43 human-written examples
You look at places that really are doing a great job with highly disadvantaged urban kids -- and they exist all over this country -- and you know it can be done".
News & Media
An assessment of distributional effects is especially relevant when policy measures, such as strict benefit sanctions, are targeted towards highly disadvantaged groups.
Science
Although this is true, if those indicators could be disaggregated down to the local population level, the excluded populations would almost certainly be extremely different and usually highly disadvantaged compared to the national average.
Science
"The White House plan focuses on intensity... for highly disadvantaged kids starting at birth," Whitehurst said.
News & Media
These include the number of executions, the range of offences which are subject to the death penalty, the lack of safeguards for the accused in the criminal justice system, the treatment of homosexuals, the use of torture, the lack of religious freedom, and the highly disadvantaged position of women.
Wiki
Health visitors and pediatricians from highly disadvantaged areas were also included in the study.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
17 human-written examples
Plain packs stripped of branding elements, featuring larger health warning labels, were associated with reduced positive cigarette brand image and purchase intentions among highly socioeconomically disadvantaged smokers.
Science
The findings of this study support plain packaging policy, and show this strategy has the potential to reduce positive associations with cigarette packs among a group of highly socioeconomically disadvantaged smokers.
Science
It is estimated that out of the 48% below the extreme poverty line, 50,000 households are extremely disadvantaged, labour-constrained and highly food insecure.
Formal & Business
Mothers in this study were highly and multiply disadvantaged, and they had very high levels of distress and low levels of community participation.
Science
This study aimed to test the potential impact of plain packaging for cigarettes on brand appeal among highly socioeconomically disadvantaged smokers using the new design for cigarettes implemented in Australia, which combines plain packaging with larger health warning labels.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "highly disadvantaged", consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the nature and extent of the challenges faced by the individuals or communities you are describing. Be specific when possible.
Common error
Avoid using "highly disadvantaged" as a blanket term without acknowledging the diverse experiences and needs within the group you are describing. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids perpetuating stereotypes.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
Adjectival Modifier: "Highly disadvantaged" primarily functions as an adjectival modifier, describing a noun or noun phrase. It characterizes the extent to which someone or something experiences disadvantage, as Ludwig AI confirms. Examples show it modifying nouns like "kids", "groups", and "communities".
Frequent in
Science
50%
News & Media
22%
Formal & Business
16%
Less common in
Wiki
6%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "highly disadvantaged" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjectival phrase employed to describe individuals, groups, or communities facing significant hardships and obstacles. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions to emphasize the severity of these disadvantages and is found across a range of contexts, including science, news media, and formal business publications. While appropriate for formal writing, it's important to use the phrase with specificity and avoid overgeneralization, ensuring that it accurately reflects the unique circumstances of those being described. Consider semantically related alternatives such as "severely deprived" or "extremely underprivileged" to fine-tune the intended nuance. Its consistent use across reputable sources validates its place in formal and informal discourse.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
severely deprived
Emphasizes the extent of the deprivation experienced.
extremely underprivileged
Highlights the lack of opportunities and privileges.
acutely marginalized
Focuses on the social exclusion and isolation.
gravely deprived
Indicates a serious state of deprivation.
badly affected
Highlights the negative impact of circumstances.
deeply impoverished
Stresses the extent of poverty.
critically underserved
Focuses on the lack of access to essential services.
significantly burdened
Emphasizes the weight of the challenges faced.
noticeably impaired
Highlights the negative impact to one's well-being.
notably neglected
Stresses the lack of care or attention received.
FAQs
How can I use "highly disadvantaged" in a sentence?
You can use "highly disadvantaged" to describe individuals or groups facing significant obstacles due to socioeconomic factors, lack of opportunities, or historical injustices. For example: "The program aims to support students from "highly disadvantaged" backgrounds".
What are some alternatives to "highly disadvantaged"?
Some alternatives include "severely deprived", "extremely underprivileged", or "acutely marginalized", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is it appropriate to use "highly disadvantaged" in formal writing?
Yes, "highly disadvantaged" is appropriate in formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts where discussing social inequalities or disparities is necessary. However, always ensure the term is used respectfully and accurately.
What is the difference between "disadvantaged" and "highly disadvantaged"?
"Highly disadvantaged" indicates a greater degree or intensity of disadvantage compared to simply "disadvantaged". It suggests that the individuals or groups face more significant or numerous obstacles.
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