in abject poverty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in abject poverty" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a dire economic situation in which a person or group of people are living in very difficult or unpleasant circumstances. For example, "In the past few decades, the city of Detroit has seen an increase in homelessness and residents living in abject poverty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm pretty much existing in abject poverty.

Vice

Israel's economy is booming, while Palestinians languish in abject poverty.

The New York Times

Their first years were lived in abject poverty.

Britannica

Most of the population lived in abject poverty.

The New York Times

"I grew up in abject poverty in the South Bronx," Zimbardo says.

Stanford University

The majority of Chagossians remained in Mauritius and the Seychelles, often living in abject poverty.

The Economist

In 1990, 36% of the world's population lived in abject poverty.

The Economist

He died in 1954, six years after Maria Angelina, in abject poverty in a Franciscan monastery.

Independent

Her family and the other inhabits of the District still live in abject poverty.

Independent

Poor women struggle to feed numerous children while living in abject poverty.

The New York Times

Zola spent most of the next two years unemployed and living in abject poverty.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in abject poverty", ensure that the context clearly illustrates the severity and hopelessness of the economic situation being described. Avoid using it casually or in situations where the poverty is not truly extreme.

Common error

Avoid using "in abject poverty" when describing standard poverty or financial difficulties. This phrase should be reserved for the most extreme and dehumanizing conditions of poverty to maintain its impact and accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in abject poverty" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the condition or state in which someone lives. It emphasizes the severity and depth of the poverty experienced. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in abject poverty" is a powerful descriptor used to convey the most extreme and dehumanizing forms of poverty. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and frequent across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. It's crucial to reserve this phrase for situations where the poverty is truly severe to maintain its impact. Consider alternatives like "in extreme destitution" or "living hand to mouth" for less extreme situations. When writing, avoid overuse and ensure that the context aligns with the gravity of the phrase. By understanding these nuances, you can use "in abject poverty" effectively to highlight critical social issues and evoke empathy in your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a state of destitution

Similar to being in abject poverty, but emphasizes the complete lack of resources and support.

in extreme destitution

Emphasizes the complete lack of resources and the utter deprivation experienced.

in dire straits

Highlights the perilous and urgent nature of the impoverished situation.

in conditions of extreme hardship

Focuses on the difficult and challenging circumstances caused by poverty.

in a state of impoverishment

Emphasizes the ongoing condition of being reduced to poverty.

living hand to mouth

Highlights the precariousness of surviving on only immediate resources.

in penury

Implies a state of extreme poverty and destitution.

in a deprived state

Highlights the lack of basic necessities and opportunities.

in indigent circumstances

Emphasizes the lack of means to provide for oneself or one's family.

below the breadline

Highlights falling below the bare minimum needed to survive.

FAQs

How can I use "in abject poverty" in a sentence?

You can use "in abject poverty" to describe situations where people experience the most extreme forms of poverty. For instance, "The refugees were living "in abject poverty" after losing their homes and livelihoods."

What are some alternatives to saying "in abject poverty"?

Alternatives include "in extreme destitution", "in dire straits", or "living hand to mouth", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in abject poverty" to describe poverty in developed countries?

While poverty exists everywhere, "in abject poverty" is best used to describe the most severe conditions, often seen in developing countries or during times of extreme crisis. Use it cautiously and accurately to avoid exaggerating the situation.

What distinguishes "in abject poverty" from "in poverty"?

"In poverty" refers to a general state of being poor, while "in abject poverty" describes a much more extreme and dehumanizing condition characterized by a complete lack of resources, basic necessities, and hope.