the needy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the needy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to individuals or groups who are in need of assistance, support, or resources, often in the context of social services or charitable efforts. Example: "The organization is dedicated to providing food and shelter for the needy in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Provide comfort to the needy.

The New York Times

"Help the needy," she called.

The Guardian - Books

The money is directed to the needy.

The New York Times

"They want the best of the needy".

The New York Times

Bring a toy for the needy.

The New York Times

"Maybe I'm the needy one," he mused.

The New York Times - Magazine

The community right to help the needy.

The Guardian

That would be catastrophic for the needy.

The New York Times

It is an exchange between equals to help the needy".

The Economist

A main goal of Obamacare was to help the needy.

The Economist

It's the needy who have been sequestered downward.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about vulnerable populations, replace the dehumanizing phrase "the needy" with person-first language that recognizes the individuals' inherent dignity and worth. Instead of saying "the needy", consider saying "people experiencing poverty" or "individuals requiring assistance".

Common error

Avoid using "the needy" to encompass all individuals facing hardship. Be specific about the particular needs and circumstances of the people you are discussing to avoid perpetuating stereotypes and oversimplifications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the needy" functions as a noun phrase, referring to a collective group of people who are in a state of need, typically lacking basic necessities like food, shelter, or clothing. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the needy" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe individuals lacking essential resources. As shown by Ludwig, its primary function is to identify those in need within discussions of aid and social welfare. While the phrase is generally acceptable, opting for more empathetic and person-first language is recommended to avoid dehumanizing individuals experiencing hardship. As reported by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media outlets.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

those in need

Replaces "the needy" with a more general term emphasizing the state of requiring assistance.

the less fortunate

Emphasizes the element of luck and circumstance in their disadvantaged situation.

the impoverished

Focuses on the lack of financial resources and economic hardship.

the underprivileged

Highlights the lack of opportunities and social advantages.

the disadvantaged

Stresses the systemic barriers and inequalities they face.

the indigent

A more formal and legalistic term for those lacking the means of subsistence.

the destitute

Emphasizes the extreme poverty and lack of basic necessities.

the vulnerable

Highlights their susceptibility to harm, exploitation, or marginalization.

the poor

A simpler and more direct term for those lacking financial resources.

those suffering hardship

Shifts the focus to the experience of difficulty and adversity.

FAQs

How can I use "the needy" in a sentence?

You can use "the needy" to refer to people who lack basic necessities such as food, shelter, or clothing. For example, "The charity provides assistance to "the needy" in the community".

What is a more empathetic way to refer to "the needy"?

Instead of using the label "the needy", consider using phrases like "those in need" or "people experiencing poverty". These phrases emphasize the person rather than the condition.

Is it grammatically correct to use "the needy" as a noun?

Yes, "the needy" is grammatically correct as a noun phrase. The definite article "the" is used to refer to a specific group of people who are in need.

What is the difference between "the needy" and "the poor"?

While both terms refer to people with limited resources, "the needy" specifically emphasizes the lack of essential necessities. "The poor" is a broader term referring to those with a low income or limited financial means, not necessarily implying an absolute lack of necessities.