less fortunate than

USAGE SUMMARY

"less fortunate than" is correct and usable in written English.
It is most commonly used to express that someone or something has less than another person or thing, usually implying that they have fewer advantages or benefits. For example, "Joe is less fortunate than his brother, who grew up with a richer upbringing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was a kind and charitable man always reaching out to those less fortunate than he.

The New York Times

In lieu of flowers, please do something kind for someone less fortunate than yourself.

The New York Times

He was an athlete, but he also tried to help people less fortunate than himself.

The New York Times - Sports

Yes, I worked with people who were considerably less fortunate than me.

The Guardian - Opinion

How did Rauschenberg demonstrate his concern for those less fortunate than himself?

The New York Times

You cannot fly into lives less fortunate than your own and expect admittance.

The Guardian - Books

My father always thought Conservatism was about helping people less fortunate than you.

The Guardian

Everyone knows one person out there they can help who's less fortunate than them.

The Guardian - Opinion

I can't imagine what it's like for someone less fortunate than me".

The New York Times

PYRAMUS: I'm having a hard time thinking of those less fortunate than we are.

The New Yorker

"And how we deal with people who are less fortunate than we are".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less fortunate than", ensure you're comparing groups or individuals with specific disparities in mind. Context is key to maintain sensitivity and avoid generalizations.

Common error

Be mindful not to use "less fortunate than" in contexts that minimize the real struggles faced by those in difficult circumstances. Ensure your language reflects genuine empathy and understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less fortunate than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, indicating a relative state of disadvantage or lack of resources. Ludwig examples show its use in describing individuals or groups who experience hardship or lack of privilege.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

19%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less fortunate than" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase for comparing the relative disadvantages of different individuals or groups. Ludwig AI indicates that it serves to express empathy and highlight societal disparities. Predominantly found in news and media, it maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for various contexts. To ensure sensitivity and accuracy, use the phrase thoughtfully, avoiding generalizations and trivialization. When a more specific term is required, consider alternatives like ""more disadvantaged than"" or "less privileged than".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worse off than

A simpler, more direct way of saying someone is in a poorer state.

in a worse situation than

Focuses on the comparative negativity of the circumstances.

more disadvantaged than

Emphasizes the lack of advantages compared to others.

in greater need than

Highlights the relative need for assistance or resources.

more deprived than

Emphasizes the lack of essential resources and opportunities.

facing greater hardship than

Focuses on the experience of enduring difficulties.

in more difficult circumstances than

Highlights the challenges and hardships faced.

less privileged than

Specifically addresses the lack of societal benefits and advantages.

experiencing more adversity than

Highlights the challenges and obstacles faced.

not as well-off as

A general way of saying someone has fewer financial or material resources.

FAQs

How can I use "less fortunate than" in a sentence?

You can use "less fortunate than" to compare the circumstances of different people or groups. For example: "We should help those "in need" who are "more disadvantaged than" ourselves."

What is a good alternative to "less fortunate than"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use phrases like ""more disadvantaged than"", "in a worse situation than", or "worse off than".

Is it appropriate to use "less fortunate than" in formal writing?

Yes, "less fortunate than" is generally appropriate for formal writing, but it's important to consider the tone and context. Ensure it is used with sensitivity and respect.

What's the difference between "less fortunate than" and "less privileged than"?

"Less fortunate than" is a broader term referring to overall circumstances, while "less privileged than" specifically addresses a lack of societal advantages or benefits. The choice depends on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.