Word
poorer
Phoneticspoor·er, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpuɹɝ/
UK/pˈɔːɹɐ/
Definition
adj. having less money or fewer resources than another person or group. It also describes something that is lower in quality or has less of a good ingredient.
adj. the comparative form of 'poor', indicating a greater lack of financial means or a lower standard of quality relative to another entity.
Examples
“The soil in this garden is poorer than in the field.”
“Families in the northern districts are often poorer than those living near the capital due to fewer job opportunities.”
“The study found that children from poorer backgrounds often face significant barriers to higher education, regardless of their academic potential or personal ambition.”
Examples
simple
“The soil in this garden is poorer than in the field.”
contextual
“Families in the northern districts are often poorer than those living near the capital due to fewer job opportunities.”
complex
“The study found that children from poorer backgrounds often face significant barriers to higher education, regardless of their academic potential or personal ambition.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “poorer” in context.
Usage
Comparative adjective; typically followed by 'than' when making a direct comparison.
Pitfall
more poorer
poorer
Poorer is already a comparative form; adding 'more' is a double comparison error common among learners.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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