# ODA

/ˈoʊdə/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/oda
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for Official Development Assistance. Money or help given by government agencies to developing countries to support their economic growth and welfare.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Official Development Assistance. Government aid that promotes and specifically targets the economic development and welfare of developing countries.

## Examples

- The country increased its ODA to support global health initiatives.
- International organizations track ODA to ensure that wealthy nations are meeting their commitments to global development goals.
- While ODA remains a critical source of financing for the least developed nations, critics argue that the conditions attached to such aid can sometimes undermine local economic sovereignty.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the context of international relations and macroeconomics; often functions as a collective noun for foreign aid flows.

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