is the poor relation of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is the poor relation of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is considered inferior or less important compared to something else. Example: "In the world of technology, virtual reality is often seen as the poor relation of augmented reality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Everyone recognises that it is the poor relation of physical illness.

The Guardian

Yet again social care is the poor relation of the NHS.

The Guardian

Typically, 500-1,000 oldies a day.No wonder cricket is the poor relation of team sports.

The Economist

Compared with these other formidable pressure groups, consumer protection is the poor relation of the lobbying family.

The Guardian

Nevertheless, the findings challenge the view that putting money in a savings account is the poor relation of investing in shares.

The Guardian - Money

Walsall is the poor relation of Birmingham, whilst Salford lies just west of Manchester.With their combination of low profile and urban blight, Salford and Walsall have become targets for the latest fashion in urban regeneration lottery-funded culturegeneration lottery-funded

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

This region has long been the poor relation of Spain".

The Guardian - Travel

Buses are the poor relation of public transport.

Independent

Anything that helps graphic design to stop being the poor relation of architecture should be encouraged".

The Guardian - Arts

For many long years, constitutional reform has been the poor relation of British politics.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mental health services are the poor relation of the health service in general, and mental health services for young people are the poor relation of mental health services.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase “is the poor relation of” to clearly indicate that something receives less attention, funding, or recognition compared to something else. Ensure the context makes the comparison obvious.

Common error

Avoid using “is the poor relation of” in highly formal or academic writing, as it can sometimes be perceived as informal. Opt for more neutral or precise language like “is subordinate to” or “receives less emphasis than” in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase “is the poor relation of” functions as a comparative idiom, typically used to denote that one thing is considered less important, less successful, or less valued than another. This is supported by the examples provided by Ludwig, where various subjects are positioned as secondary to others.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase “is the poor relation of” is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe something that is considered less important, successful, or valued compared to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is frequently found in news and media sources, with occasional usage in scientific and formal contexts. While generally neutral, it leans towards the informal side and may not be suitable for highly formal or academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is clear and appropriate for the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not as valued as

Directly states the difference in perceived worth.

is the lesser of

Directly indicates a lower status or quality.

is the underdog of

Focuses on the aspect of being less favored and likely to succeed.

is second-class to

Highlights a hierarchical difference in value or importance.

is the neglected sibling of

Emphasizes the lack of attention or resources given.

is subordinate to

Indicates a lower rank or position.

lacks the prestige of

Emphasizes the absence of honor or reputation.

is the weaker counterpart of

Stresses the comparative weakness or inferiority.

is the junior partner to

Indicates a less important role in a partnership.

is the disadvantaged member of

Focuses on the unfair circumstances leading to lower status.

FAQs

How can I use “is the poor relation of” in a sentence?

You can use "is the poor relation of" to indicate that something is considered less important or receives less attention than something else. For instance, "In many companies, customer service is the poor relation of sales".

What are some alternatives to “is the poor relation of”?

You can use alternatives like "is the underdog of", "is the lesser of", or "is not as valued as" depending on the context.

Is “is the poor relation of” suitable for formal writing?

While "is the poor relation of" is widely understood, it may be considered informal for highly formal or academic contexts. More neutral alternatives may be preferable in those situations.

What does it mean when something is described as “the poor relation of” something else?

It means that it is considered less important, less successful, or receives less attention and resources compared to the other thing. It implies a disparity in status or value.