worst off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "worst off" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or a group that is in the most disadvantaged or unfortunate situation compared to others. Example: "In the current economic climate, those without stable jobs are the worst off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

International research repeatedly shows that the worst off are females, 614 million of them.

Independent

For the worst off, there are programs like Haven Behavioral's, which offers intensive therapeutic services.

The New Yorker

"What's driving the disparity is the worsening of the worst off," Dr. Ezzati said.

The New York Times

These sperm whale strandings are the worst off the English coast since records began in 1913.

The Guardian

Worst off is Dimitris: 27 years old, with a master's in management, and an instinctive politeness.

The Guardian

The worst off, under oxygen tents, cannot come to the courtroom.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Thus began perhaps the N.H.L.'s worst off-season.

The New York Times - Sports

For the worst-off, the data are catastrophic.

The Economist

"This isn't even the worst-off area," one man said.

The New York Times

He stands for democracy, and for the worst-off.

The Guardian - Opinion

The worst-off sometimes get the worst deal because bulk purchasers can negotiate discounts.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "worst off", ensure you clearly define the context or group to which you are comparing. For example, "The unemployed are often the "worst off" during economic downturns."

Common error

Avoid using "worst off" without specifying the reference group or situation. Without context, it becomes unclear who or what is being compared, leading to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worst off" functions as an adjective phrase describing a state of being in the most unfavorable or disadvantaged position. Ludwig AI shows examples where it identifies individuals or groups experiencing the greatest hardship compared to others. It usually requires a comparison with another group or situation to give it full meaning.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "worst off" is an adjective phrase used to describe individuals or groups experiencing the most hardship in a particular situation. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and is most frequently found in news, business, and scientific contexts. While relatively common, using "worst off" effectively requires a clear point of comparison to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "most disadvantaged" or "hardest hit", each bringing a slight nuance to the description. Always be specific in defining the context to ensure clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most disadvantaged

Focuses on the lack of advantages rather than the severity of the situation.

in the most difficult situation

Emphasizes the challenges faced rather than overall well-being.

hardest hit

Highlights the impact of an adverse event or circumstance.

most vulnerable

Stresses susceptibility to harm or negative consequences.

in the direst straits

Uses more dramatic language to depict a severe predicament.

suffering the most

Highlights the experience of pain and hardship.

in the greatest need

Focuses on the requirement for assistance or support.

farthest from well-being

Highlights the difference with a satisfactory condition.

most deprived

Emphasizes the lack of essential resources or opportunities.

in the least favorable circumstances

Focuses on the negative and unfavorable conditions surrounding a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "worst off" in a sentence?

Use "worst off" to describe individuals or groups experiencing the most hardship or disadvantage in a specific situation. For example, "Those without health insurance are often the "worst off" when unexpected medical bills arise."

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "worst off"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "most disadvantaged", "most vulnerable", or "hardest hit" to convey a similar meaning. Each alternative emphasizes a different aspect of being in a difficult situation.

Is it more appropriate to say "worst off" or "badly off"?

"Worst off" indicates the superlative degree of being in a bad situation, meaning the absolute most disadvantaged. "Badly off" simply implies being in a difficult situation, but not necessarily the most severe. Therefore, "worst off" is used for comparisons where someone is in the poorest position relative to others.

What factors typically contribute to someone being considered "worst off"?

Many factors can contribute, including poverty, lack of access to healthcare, unemployment, discrimination, and social isolation. The specific factors will vary depending on the context in which the term is being used.