POOR Meaning and
Definition
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Poor is an adjective that describes a state of lacking sufficient resources, both material and financial, to meet one's needs or live comfortably. When someone is poor, they do not possess the means to afford basic necessities such as adequate food, clothing, and shelter. This can result in a lower standard of living with limited access to education, healthcare, and transportation. The lack of financial stability in poor individuals often leads to difficulties in pursuing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Additionally, poor can also refer to the quality or condition of something. In this context, poor describes something that is of low quality, substandard, or inferior. It implies a lack of excellence or expertise in a particular area.
The term 'poor' is relative and can vary across different socio-economic contexts. It is often used in comparison to average or prosperous conditions, highlighting the disparity between those who have an abundance of resources and those who do not. Policies and measures aimed at alleviating poverty are designed to improve the living conditions and socio-economic well-being of poor individuals and communities.
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Having small means; needy; of little or no use or value; paltry; mean; wanting in strength, beauty, or dignity; not fertile, as a soil; worthy of compassion; spiritless; dejected; lean; emaciated; without good qualities; wretched or miserable, in contempt; in Scrip., humble or contrite.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for POOR *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for POOR
Etymology of POOR
The word "poor" has its origins in the Old French word "povre", which came from the Latin word "pauper". The Latin term "pauper" referred to someone who had little or no means of support or resources. Over time, the word evolved and was adopted into English as "poor", retaining its basic meaning of lacking material wealth or resources.
Idioms with the word POOR
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the poor
The idiom "the poor" refers to a group or category of individuals who are lacking financial resources, living in poverty, and experiencing a socio-economic disadvantage. It typically refers to people with lower income levels, limited access to basic needs, and facing various challenges related to poverty.
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be/come a poor second, third, etc.
The idiom "be/come a poor second, third, etc." means to be in a significantly inferior position or rank compared to someone or something else. It implies that one's performance, quality, or level of success is much lower or inadequate in comparison to the leader or the best performer.
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poor form
The idiom "poor form" refers to behavior or actions that are considered impolite, inappropriate, or not socially acceptable, often indicating a lack of respect or consideration. It emphasizes a breach of expected behavior or manners.
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It is a poor heart that never rejoices.
The idiom "It is a poor heart that never rejoices" means that even in difficult or challenging times, it is essential to find joy and appreciate the smaller moments of happiness. It implies that a person who is unable to find joy in any situation is lacking in emotional fulfillment or resilience.
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poor as a churchmouse
The idiom "poor as a churchmouse" means to be extremely poor or destitute; having little to no money or possessions.
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be a poor second
The idiom "be a poor second" refers to someone or something that is significantly inferior or less skilled in comparison to another person or thing. It often implies a lack of competence, ability, or performance in relation to a superior alternative.
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the deserving poor
The idiom "the deserving poor" refers to those individuals or groups who are considered deserving of help or support due to their genuine need or unfortunate circumstances. It implies that some individuals in poverty are more deserving of assistance based on their moral character, work ethic, or other factors, as opposed to people who are seen as responsible for their own poverty due to laziness or poor choices.
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a poor relation
The idiom "a poor relation" refers to a person or thing that is regarded as inferior, less important, or less successful when compared to others. It is often used to describe someone who is socially or economically less privileged or someone or something that is regarded as being of lower quality or status in a particular context.
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be a/the poor man's (someone or something)
The idiom "be a/the poor man's (someone or something)" refers to something or someone that is seen as a lesser or cheaper version or alternative to another well-known or highly regarded person or thing. It is often used to imply that the subject being described may not be as good in quality, abilities, or skills as the one it is being compared to.
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be as poor as church mice
The idiom "be as poor as church mice" means to be very poor or have little to no money or possessions. It is often used to describe individuals or families who have extremely limited financial resources and struggle to make ends meet. The comparison to church mice emphasizes the idea of being deprived or lacking in resources, as church mice are commonly associated with living in poverty due to their presence in old buildings or religious establishments known for their humble conditions.
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poor little rich girl
The idiom "poor little rich girl" refers to a wealthy, privileged woman who's faced with emotional or psychological troubles despite her material abundance. It can imply that material possessions and financial security are insufficient for true happiness and can't compensate for emotional deficiencies or unfulfilled desires.
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there's one law for the rich and another for the poor
The idiom "there's one law for the rich and another for the poor" means that the wealthy and powerful often receive preferential treatment, leniency, or different standards of justice than those who are less fortunate or of lower socio-economic status. It implies that the legal system may be biased or unequal in its treatment of different social classes.
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house poor
The idiom "house poor" refers to a situation where an individual or household spends a significant portion of their income on housing expenses, such as mortgage or rent, leaving little money for other essential expenses or discretionary spending. It implies that a large proportion of one's financial resources is tied up in housing costs, leading to a limited budget for other necessities or a lower overall quality of life due to financial constraints.
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be a poor third
The idiom "be a poor third" refers to a situation where someone or something is considered significantly inferior or far behind in ranking or importance compared to the top two options or choices. It implies being in a distant and disadvantageous position, lacking the qualities or qualities necessary to compete effectively or be considered a viable contender.
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poor as a church mouse (or as church mice)
The idiom "poor as a church mouse (or as church mice)" refers to someone who is extremely poor or has very little money. The comparison to a church mouse emphasizes the idea of being impoverished because traditionally, church mice are seen as living in a place where there is no abundance of wealth or resources. Therefore, the idiom conveys a state of financial destitution.
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make a poor fist of (something)
The idiom "make a poor fist of (something)" means to do something badly or unsuccessfully, often due to a lack of skill, effort, or understanding. It suggests a clumsy or inept attempt at a certain task or activity.
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poor relation
The idiom "poor relation" refers to someone or something that is considered inferior or of lesser value compared to others in a particular group or context. It implies a subordinate or disadvantaged position in relation to others.
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poor boy
The definition of the idiom "poor boy" refers to a person who is disadvantaged, typically financially, and lacks privileges or wealth. It can also be used to describe someone who leads a difficult or pitiable life.
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take a poor view of something
The idiom "take a poor view of something" means to have a negative or unfavorable opinion or perception about something. It suggests that the person or people involved do not have a favorable or positive perspective on a particular situation, idea, or action.
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a poor craftsman blames his tools
The idiom "a poor craftsman blames his tools" means that someone who lacks skill or ability in a particular task or profession often blames the tools, equipment, or resources they have, rather than admitting their own incompetence. It implies that the quality of the work ultimately depends on the abilities and expertise of the person performing it, rather than the tools or materials being used.
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poor taste, in
The idiom "poor taste, in" typically refers to someone's lack of good judgment or an offensive sense of aesthetics. It suggests that the person has a tendency to appreciate things that are vulgar, inappropriate, or offensive to others.
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be a/the poor man's sb/sth
The idiom "be a/the poor man's sb/sth" can be defined as a comparison between two similar things or people, where the former is seen as a cheaper, inferior version of the latter. It suggests that the first option is a less desirable or less satisfactory alternative to the second.
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a miserable, poor, etc. excuse for sth
The idiom "a miserable, poor, etc. excuse for sth" means that something or someone is considered to be very inadequate, unsatisfactory, or of low quality in relation to a particular thing being referred to. It implies that the mentioned thing or person is lacking in the expected standards or qualities required for that specific purpose.
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come/be a poor second, third, etc.
The idiom "come/be a poor second, third, etc." refers to being significantly inferior or less impressive compared to someone or something else. It signifies being in a position of low importance or quality, unable to measure up to the excellence or success of others.
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be in bad, poor, the worst possible, etc. taste
The idiom "be in bad, poor, the worst possible, etc. taste" means that something is considered vulgar, offensive, or lacking in social propriety. It refers to something that is not appropriate or morally acceptable within the context of societal norms and standards of decency.
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be in poor voice
The idiom "be in poor voice" refers to someone or something being in a state of having a weak or unpleasant sound, particularly when it comes to singing or speaking. It indicates that the person's voice is not performing well, lacking its usual strength, clarity, or quality.
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a poor excuse for
The idiom "a poor excuse for" is used to signify that something or someone is not a satisfactory or credible justification or explanation for a particular situation or behavior. It implies that the excuse provided is weak, unconvincing, or lacking substance.
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one law for the rich and another for the poor
The idiom "one law for the rich and another for the poor" means that there is a perception or reality of unequal treatment or favoritism in society, where individuals with wealth and influence are treated differently by the law compared to those who are not as privileged or financially well-off. It implies that the legal system is biased or skewed towards benefiting the wealthy class while being harsher or less lenient towards the less fortunate or economically disadvantaged individuals.
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poor as Job's turkey
The idiom "poor as Job's turkey" refers to someone or something that is extremely impoverished or lacking in wealth and resources. It originates from the biblical story of Job, who endured immense suffering and loss, including poverty. Comparing someone or something to Job's turkey implies a level of destitution and hardship.
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the poor man’s somebody/something
The idiom "the poor man's somebody/something" refers to a less expensive or less prestigious version or alternative to a more well-known or prestigious person or thing. It is often used to describe a substitute or an approximation of something or someone that is considered to be of higher quality or status.
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a poor man's
The idiom "a poor man's" is used to describe something that is a cheaper, less sophisticated, or inferior alternative to something else. It implies that the substitute lacks the quality, prestige, or desirability of the original or higher-priced item.
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a poor man's sb/sth
The idiom "a poor man's sb/sth" is used to refer to someone or something that is considered a less expensive or inferior version of a particular person or thing. It implies that the person or thing being referred to is a budget-friendly alternative or a substitute that is perceived as less valuable or of lower quality compared to the original.
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poor but clean
The idiom "poor but clean" refers to someone who may not have much material wealth or possessions, but takes pride in personal hygiene and cleanliness. It suggests that despite their financial limitations, they manage to maintain a neat and tidy appearance.
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grind the faces of the poor
The idiom "grind the faces of the poor" is an exaggerated expression that refers to the act of exploiting or mistreating those who are already disadvantaged or struggling financially. It implies a situation where someone in a position of power or authority takes advantage of the weak and vulnerable, further exacerbating their difficulties for personal gain or enjoyment.
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land so poor it wouldn't even raise a fuss
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dirt-poor
The idiom "dirt-poor" is used to describe someone who is extremely poor or impoverished. It implies that the person has so little money or resources that they are as poor as dirt.
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take a dim (or poor) view of
To have a negative or unfavorable opinion about something.
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give a good/poor account of yourself
To give a good/poor account of yourself means to perform or behave in a way that either impresses others positively or disappoints them. It refers to how someone presents themselves or handles a situation, with the outcome reflecting positively or negatively on their abilities or character.
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not (all) that (good, bad, well, poor, etc.)
The idiom "not (all) that (good, bad, well, poor, etc.)" is used to indicate that something or someone is not as impressive, effective, or important as has been suggested or expected. It implies that the actual quality or ability of the subject is not outstanding or exceptional.
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put on a good, poor, wonderful, etc. show
To put on a show means to present something in a particular way, often for entertainment or to create a certain impression. This idiom can also refer to someone covering up their true feelings or intentions and pretending to be something they are not.
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*poor as a church mouse
The idiom "poor as a church mouse" is used to describe someone who is extremely poor or broke. It suggests that the person is as poor as a church mouse, which is a metaphor for being very impoverished.
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make a better, good, poor, etc. fist of something
To make a better, good, poor, etc. fist of something means to handle or approach a task, situation, or problem in a particular manner, whether it be skillfully, effectively, poorly, etc. It implies making an effort or attempt to do something in a certain way.
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in (good, poor, etc.) repair
In good, poor, etc., repair means to be in a state of good, poor, or other condition in terms of maintenance or upkeep. It typically refers to the physical state or condition of an object, property, or structure.
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in (good, poor, etc.) state of repair
"In (good, poor, etc.) state of repair" means the overall condition or quality of something, such as a building or a piece of equipment. If something is in good state of repair, it means it is well-maintained and functioning properly. Conversely, if something is in poor state of repair, it means it is in need of maintenance or is not functioning properly.
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cut a fine, poor, sorry, etc. figure
To "cut a fine, poor, sorry, etc. figure" means to present oneself in a particular way or to be seen in a certain light, often conveying a sense of elegance, grace, or inadequacy depending on the adjective used.
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in (good, poor, etc.) taste
The idiom "in (good, poor, etc.) taste" refers to something that is considered socially acceptable and appropriate based on cultural or societal norms. If something is said or done in good taste, it is seen as refined, tasteful, and respectful. Conversely, if something is in poor taste, it is seen as inappropriate, offensive, or vulgar.
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land-poor
"Land-poor" refers to a situation where a landowner possesses a large amount of land but has limited financial resources or income to make use of or maintain the land.
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be in good, poor, etc. voice
The idiom "be in good, poor, etc. voice" means to be able to speak or sing clearly, confidently, and effectively, or to lack the ability to do so due to illness, fatigue, or other reasons.
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in (good, poor, etc.) nick
In good nick refers to being in good condition, health, or form, while in poor nick refers to being in poor condition or health.
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a sad, poor, etc. reflection on something
The idiom "a sad, poor, etc. reflection on something" refers to a situation or outcome that serves as a negative representation or example of something. It suggests that the situation is a disappointing or unfavorable portrayal of a larger issue or concept.
Similar spelling words for POOR
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